Set log retention policy

Log retention determines how long logs are stored before they are automatically removed. Each log type has its own retention configuration.

The configuration files are located in: C:\Program Files\Milestone\VictoriaLogs\

Log type	Configuration file
System logs	VictoriaLogsConfig_System.json
Audit logs	VictoriaLogsConfig_Audit.json
Rule logs	VictoriaLogsConfig_Rule.json

Change the retention period

To change the retention period:

Open the relevant configuration file.
Locate the LogRetentionPeriod setting.
Enter the required duration. e.g.
```
{ 
"LogRetentionPeriod": "14d" 
}
```
Save the file.

Supported retention formats

Unit	Example
Days (`d`)	`30d`
Weeks (`w`)	`4w`
Months (`m`)	`3m`
Years (`y`)	`1y`

The minimum supported value is 1d. There is no upper limit. Logs can be retained indefinitely, with available disk space acting as the only practical limit.

Retention guidelines

Audit logs are often retained longer to support auditing and compliance requirements.

Log type	Typical retention
System logs	Days to weeks
Rule logs	Weeks to months
Audit logs	Months to years

Warning

Audit logs can contain personal data. If GDPR compliance applies to your organization, consider limiting audit log retention to one year unless a longer retention period is required by law or policy.

XProtect Management Client