ScyllaDB Audit Log

Introduction

Database Audit Logs has become a critical concern for organizations handling sensitive data. As cyber threats evolve, implementing robust security measures is essential to protect valuable information from breaches and unauthorized access. High-performance NoSQL databases, such as ScyllaDB, are widely used for their scalability and efficiency, but securing them requires additional tools and configurations. Ensuring proper database security involves strategies like encryption, access controls, and comprehensive audit logging. With increasing regulatory requirements and growing concerns about data security, maintaining thorough audit trails has become essential for compliance and risk management.

Native ScyllaDB Audit Log

ScyllaDB Enterprise Edition provides built-in audit logging functionality that can be configured through the scylla.yaml configuration file. The audit log system captures various database activities, including authentication attempts, data modifications, and schema changes.

To enable native audit logging in ScyllaDB, modify the scylla.yaml file:

audit: "table"
audit_categories: "DCL,DDL,AUTH,ADMIN"
audit_keyspaces: "my_keyspace"
audit_tables: "my_keyspace.sensitive_table"

The audit logs can be stored either in a dedicated ScyllaDB table or sent to Syslog. When using table storage, the audit records are stored in a structure similar to:

CREATE TABLE audit.audit_log (
    date timestamp,
    node inet,
    event_time timeuuid,
    category text,
    consistency text,
    table_name text,
    keyspace_name text,
    operation text,
    source inet,
    username text,
    error boolean,
    PRIMARY KEY ((date, node), event_time)
);

Example audit log query output:

ScyllaDB Audit Log with DataSunrise

While ScyllaDB’s native audit capabilities are useful, DataSunrise provides enhanced audit logging features specifically designed for enterprise environments. DataSunrise’s ScyllaDB audit log functionality offers real-time monitoring, advanced filtering, and comprehensive reporting capabilities.

DataSunrise implements a proxy-based architecture that captures all database interactions, ensuring complete visibility of database operations. Its built-in performance anaylitcs tool can help gain useful insights about your database environment.

ScyllaDB Audit Log Best Practices

Designing an effective audit logging strategy for ScyllaDB requires a strategic approach that balances comprehensive monitoring with performance considerations. Here are key best practices to maximize your audit log’s value while minimizing potential overhead:

1. Selective Auditing

Don’t log everything indiscriminately. Use audit_categories judiciously, focusing on critical events like authentication (AUTH), data definition changes (DDL), and administrative operations (ADMIN). This targeted approach reduces performance impact and storage requirements.

2. Granular Keyspace and Table Configuration

Leverage ScyllaDB’s fine-grained auditing by specifying exact audit_keyspaces and audit_tables. Concentrate on sensitive tables containing personally identifiable information (PII) or critical business data.

3. Performance Monitoring

Regularly review the performance implications of audit logging. ScyllaDB Enterprise allows extensive auditing, but excessive logging can introduce latency. Use DataSunrise’s performance monitoring tools to balance security insights with system efficiency.

4. Secure Log Storage

Whether using Syslog or ScyllaDB’s internal audit table, ensure your logs are stored securely. Implement encryption and strict access controls to prevent unauthorized log access or tampering.

5. Regular Log Review

Establish a routine for reviewing audit logs. Look for unusual patterns, unauthorized access attempts, and potential security anomalies. Automated alerts can help quickly identify and respond to suspicious activities.

By implementing these practices, you’ll create a robust audit logging strategy that enhances your ScyllaDB’s security posture without compromising performance.

Conclusion

Implementing robust ScyllaDB audit log mechanisms is crucial for maintaining database security and compliance. While ScyllaDB’s native auditing provides basic functionality, DataSunrise offers comprehensive audit logging capabilities that meet enterprise-level requirements.

To experience the full potential of DataSunrise’s ScyllaDB Audit Log features, you can schedule a personalized demo or download the trial version today.