Troubleshooting Nxfilter Log Retention Issues in Complex Network Setups

When it comes to maintaining a secure and efficient network, log retention is a crucial aspect of Nxfilter configuration. However, in complex setups with multiple nodes and servers, issues can arise that hinder effective monitoring and troubleshooting. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Nxfilter log retention and explore common problems and their solutions.

First, let's start with an example scenario. Imagine you're experiencing issues with certain domains being blocked on your network, despite there being no mention of them in the filter logs. This can be frustrating, especially when users are still seeing block pages for sites that aren't actually blocked. The NxCloud master node is off-site, and communication between the Master and Slave seems to be working perfectly. Domains like the one shown below are getting blocked, even though there's no record of them being blocked in the logs.

To troubleshoot this issue, you'll need to check the /log/nxfilter.log and /log/nxrelay.log on all three NxCloud/NxRelay servers. In this case, it appears that the logs don't show any mention of the domain getting blocked. This suggests that the block may not be coming from NxFilter itself, but rather from another source.

Another potential issue to consider is log retention period. NxFilter allows you to set how long it keeps its log data. While keeping logs for an extended period can be useful for auditing and troubleshooting purposes, it's essential to strike a balance between log retention and disk space usage. If your logs grow too large, it may lead to performance issues or even crashes.

To resolve this issue, you'll need to investigate other potential sources of blocking, such as DNS resolution or firewall rules. In addition, make sure that your NxCloud master node is properly configured and communicating with the Slave node without any issues.

In conclusion, troubleshooting Nxfilter log retention issues in complex network setups requires patience, persistence, and attention to detail. By understanding how NxFilter works and identifying potential sources of blocking, you can resolve these issues and ensure that your network runs smoothly and securely.