What type of file do investigators analyze to detect unauthorized access in network security?

Investigators primarily analyze web server log files to detect unauthorized access in network security because these files provide a detailed record of all interactions with the web server. They contain crucial information such as timestamps, IP addresses, the types of requests made, the resources accessed, and the response codes. This data is invaluable for identifying suspicious activity or patterns that may indicate unauthorized access attempts or security breaches. By examining these logs, analysts can trace back the actions of potential intruders, understand the methods used for access, and assess the overall security posture of the network.

In contrast, application files typically contain the code and resources necessary for applications to run, but do not directly provide insights into access patterns or unauthorized activities. Binary files are often compiled versions of software or data files that are not easily interpretable for forensic analysis. System configuration files hold settings and configurations for various system processes, which are important for understanding system behavior but do not inherently show access data or violations. Therefore, web server log files are the primary focus for forensic analysis in identifying unauthorized access.