How many log sources can be received and forwarded from a universal forwarder?

[evang_26]

Hi users,

Probably a bit silly question, but because I've never seen that setup in any of Google searches, I have that simple question:

I want to use a forwarder to forward logs from about 50 Windows machines. Would that single (universal forwarder) be able to receive and forward logs from all those machines? Would that be an acceptable setup?

Regards

[richgalloway · Accepted solution]

A single forwarder should be able to support that load, but I think you'd be better off installing a Universal Forwarder on each Windows machine. Running forwarders locally makes for easier access to log files. See Considerations for deciding how to monitor remote Windows data.

[evang_26]

Does that apply only for Windows logs? Because actually, I have another 50+ Linux hosts as well.

Regards

[richgalloway]

The chapter on monitoring remote Windows data applies only to Windows machines. For Linux, I recommend installing the Splunk for Unix app.

[evang_26]

Right, okay. so in any way, having the forwarders installed on the source system itself is always a better option.

Okay, thanks!