improving signal to noise ratio from centralized network syslogs

[Joe Maimon <jmaimon () jmaimon com>]

Hey All,

Centralized logging is a good thing. However, what happens is that every 
repetitive, annoying but not (usually) important thing fills up the log 
with reams of what you are not looking for.

Networks are a noisy place and silencing every logged condition is 
impractical and sometimes undesirable.

What I am interested in is an automated zoom-in zoom-out tool to mask 
the repetition of "normal" events and allow the unusual to stand out.

Add to that an ability to identify gaps in the background noise. (The 
dog that didnt bark)

What I am not interested in are solutions based upon preconfigured 
filters and definitions and built in analysis for supported 
(prepopulated definitions) platforms, this is all about pattern 
mining/masking and should be self discoverable. Ideally a command tool 
to generate static versions of the analysis coupled with a web platform 
(with zoom +- buttons)  for realtime.

I made a crude run of it with SLCT, using its generated patterns to grep 
-v, and that in and of itself was useful, but needs a bit of work. Also, 
its not quite real time.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Joe