> Programming Considerations > Managing Input and Output > Managing Log Files

As ILOG CPLEX is working, it can record messages to a log file. By default, the Interactive Optimizer creates the log file in the directory where it is running, and it names the file cplex.log. If such a file already exists, ILOG CPLEX adds a line indicating the current time and date and then appends new information to the end of the existing file. That is, it does not overwrite the file, and it distinguishes different sessions within the log file. By default, there is no log file for Component Library applications.

You can locate the log file where you like, and you can rename it. Some users, for example, like to create a specifically named log file for each session. Also you can close the log file in case you do not want ILOG CPLEX to record messages to its default log file.

The following sections show you the commands for creating, renaming, relocating, and closing a log file.

Creating, Renaming, Relocating Log Files

Closing Log Files