4.2.2.2 Ensure journald is configured to compress large log files

Information

The journald system includes the capability of compressing overly large files to avoid filling up the system with logs or making the logs unmanageably large.

Note: The main configuration file /etc/systemd/journald.conf is read before any of the custom *.conf files. If there are custom configs present, they override the main configuration parameters

Rationale:

Uncompressed large files may unexpectedly fill a filesystem leading to resource unavailability. Compressing logs prior to write can prevent sudden, unexpected filesystem impacts.

Solution

Edit the /etc/systemd/journald.conf file and add the following line:

Compress=yes

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/2920

Item Details

Category: AUDIT AND ACCOUNTABILITY

References: 800-53|AU-4, CSCv7|6.4

Plugin: Unix

Control ID: cbeaa6b693d9aa0c8d298dd4351e4dc994a734bd1f2ff5e6dbeb035ce46c8978