# Create a Delete Log Task

The recommended way to delete logs is to set up a Delete Log Task.

##

You can use Filter elements to select log data to be deleted.

For more details about the product and how to configure features, click Help or press F1.

## Steps

1. Select Configuration, then browse to Administration.
2. Browse to Tasks.
3. Right-click Tasks, then select New > Delete Log Task.
4. Configure the settings.
5. Select the server from which the logs are deleted, then click Add.
6. Click OK.

## Result

The task appears under Task Definitions in the Tasks branch of the Administration tree. You can run the task either manually or according to a fixed schedule.
CAUTION:
When this task starts (either manually or as according to the schedule), all logs matching the selected filter and time range are permanently deleted from the active storage. Make sure that the data you want to keep is exported or copied to a safe location before the operation is started.

## Delete Log Task Properties dialog box

Use this dialog box to delete log data.

Option | Definition
--- | ---
General tab
Name | Specifies the element name.
Comment | An optional comment for your own reference.
Servers | Select from the available servers.
Search | Enter a search parameter to locate a server. Clicking X removes the search field.
Up | Navigates up one level in the navigation hierarchy. Not available at the top level of the navigation hierarchy.
Tools | New — Creates an element of the specified type. Show Deleted Elements — Shows elements that have been moved to the Trash.
Add | Adds the selected server to the Target list.
Remove | Removes the selected server from Target list.
Target | Shows the servers that you have selected.

Option | Definition
--- | ---
Task tab
Target Data | Select the type of log data to delete.
Time Range | Specifies the time range of the log entries. You have several options to limit the time range. For example, select Absolute Time Range in the Time Range list and define the Start and End Time.
Script to Execute After the Task | This script runs after the task finishes. The script is located at /data/script sub-folder in the SMC installation directory. The `LOG_SCRIPT_DIR` parameter defines this script directory path in the LogServerConfiguration.txt

Option | Definition
--- | ---
Operation tab
Filter for Deletion | Select a filter to narrow the scope of the logs to be deleted. Click Select to select an element.