Mastering C# Logging: Essential Tips from Basics to Advanced

Explore expert tips on C# logging with practical examples, from selecting the right framework to implementing advanced features like structured logging and log rotation. Perfect for developers looking to enhance application reliability and maintainability.

1. Choose the Right Logging Framework

Many logging frameworks like NLog, Serilog, and log4net are available for .Net Applications. I recommend using Serilog as it is most commonly used because of its structured logging capabilities.

// Using Serilog
Log.Logger = new LoggerConfiguration()
    .WriteTo.Console()
    .WriteTo.File("logs/myapp.txt", rollingInterval: RollingInterval.Day)
    .CreateLogger();

Log.Information("This is a Serilog example.");

2. Use Built-in .NET Core Logging

Even Microsoft provides a built-in logging framework using Microsoft.Extensions.Logging namespace as shown below.

// Using Microsoft.Extensions.Logging
ILogger<YourClass> _logger = serviceProvider.GetRequiredService<ILogger<YourClass>>();
_logger.LogInformation("Logging…