Security teams cannot investigate events that were never recorded, cannot be retrieved, or cannot be connected to the affected system. A logging coverage map helps identify those gaps before an incident makes them urgent.
Map important systems to evidence sources
For each service, record the logs available from identity, endpoint, application, cloud, network, database, security, and administrative layers as applicable. Note which source can answer questions about authentication, configuration changes, access, data movement, and system activity.
Check collection and retrieval separately
A source may generate useful events without those events reaching the central platform. Verify collection, timestamps, parsing, searchable fields, retention, and access permissions. Periodically retrieve a known event to confirm the path works end to end.
Identify blind spots explicitly
Record systems with no useful logging, limited retention, vendor-controlled evidence, or weak identity context. A documented limitation can be addressed; an assumed capability often becomes a surprise during response.
Protect the logs
Limit administrative access, monitor changes to collection settings, and consider how an attacker with elevated access could suppress or alter evidence. Logging infrastructure is part of the security environment, not just a reporting service.
Coordinate evidence requirements
Legal holds, privacy duties, contractual requirements, sector rules, and formal forensic procedures may affect retention and handling. Those determinations belong with the appropriate qualified owners.
Related knowledge
Continue with Cybersecurity Incident Evidence, Cybersecurity Recovery Priorities, Privileged Access Reviews, and Security Alert Triage.
References
This is general cybersecurity guidance. Legal, regulatory, privacy, evidentiary, contractual, and sector-specific requirements need qualified review.