ARCHIVED: In Windows, how can I clear the Security Log?

If you receive a message that the Security Log is full when you log into Windows, follow the appropriate steps below to clear it:

Windows Vista and above

Note: In Windows 8 and 7, these instructions assume you are using either Large or Small Icon view.

1. Log into your computer as an administrator.

   Note: At Indiana University, the University Information Security Office (UISO) recommends that you normally refrain from running your Windows computer as an administrator. For more, see What is the principle of least privilege?

2. In Windows 8, press Win-q and select Control Panel. Alternatively, in Desktop view, move the mouse to the bottom right corner of the screen and select Settings, followed by Control Panel.

   Note: For help navigating in Windows 8, see About views in Windows (Start screen/menu, Control Panel) and Microsoft's Windows 8 FAQ.

   In Windows 7 and Vista, from the Start menu, open Control Panel.

   Note: If this doesn't match what you see, refer to About navigation settings in Windows.

3. Open Administrative Tools, and then Computer Management.
   
   
4. In the left frame, double-click Event Viewer, and then Windows Logs.
   
   
5. Right-click Security and choose Clear Log... . You will have the option to save the details of the log. After you respond to this prompt, the log will be cleared.

Windows XP

1. Log into your computer as an administrator.
   
   
2. From the Start menu, select Settings, then Control Panel.

   Note: If this doesn't match what you see, refer to About navigation settings in Windows.

3. Double-click Administrative Tools, and then Computer Management.
   
   
4. Beside Event Viewer, click the + (plus sign) to expand the list, and click Security.
   
   
5. From the Action menu, select Clear all Events, and then click No to clear the log.

For more on the Event Viewer, see Microsoft Help and Support article 308427.

Search Microsoft Support.