What are Cloud Audit Logs?
Cloud Audit Logs are an integral part of Google Cloud Logging that automatically records all administrative activities, data access, and system events. The logs are immutable and provide a complete audit trail for compliance and security.
Core Features
- Automatic capture of all API calls and configuration changes
- Four log types: Admin Activity, Data Access, System Event, Policy Denied
- Integration with Cloud Logging for central analysis
- Export to Cloud Storage, BigQuery, or Pub/Sub
- VPC Service Controls for data protection
Typical Use Cases
Compliance Documentation: Documentation of all changes to resources for SOC 2, ISO 27001, or industry-specific regulations.
Security Forensics: Tracking suspicious activities and investigating security incidents with complete timeline.
Access Control: Monitoring who accessed which data for data governance and privacy.
Benefits
- No configuration required for basic logging
- Immutable logs for forensic integrity
- Native integration with Security Command Center
- Free Admin Activity Logs
Integration with innFactory
As a Google Cloud partner, innFactory supports you with Cloud Audit Logs: architecture, migration, operations, and cost optimization.
Available Tiers & Options
Standard
- Automatic capture
- Integrated in all services
- Long-term retention
- Data Access Logs are billable
Typical Use Cases
Technical Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cloud Audit Logs?
Cloud Audit Logs automatically record all administrative activities, system events, and data access in Google Cloud for compliance and security analysis.
What log types are available?
There are Admin Activity Logs (free), Data Access Logs (billable), System Event Logs, and Policy Denied Logs.
How long are logs retained?
Admin Activity and System Event Logs are retained for 400 days. Data Access Logs can be exported to Cloud Storage or BigQuery for longer retention.
How do I integrate Audit Logs with SIEM systems?
Logs can be streamed to external SIEM systems via Pub/Sub or exported to BigQuery for analysis. Chronicle offers native integration.
