How to configure Logstash pipelines

A Logstash pipeline consists of input, filter, and output stages that define how events flow from source to destination. By chaining filters, data can be parsed, enriched, or transformed.

Configuration files (usually in /etc/logstash/conf.d) define these stages. Multiple pipelines can run concurrently, handling diverse data sources.

Proper pipeline design ensures that data is normalized, structured, and ready for indexing in Elasticsearch or other outputs.

1. Open or create a pipeline configuration file in /etc/logstash/conf.d.

   $ sudo nano /etc/logstash/conf.d/my_pipeline.conf
   (no direct output)

   Use a meaningful file name to identify the pipeline’s purpose.

2. Define an input block specifying sources like Filebeat or TCP.
3. Add filter blocks with grok, mutate, or geoip to parse and enrich data.
4. Include an output block to send data to Elasticsearch or other destinations.
5. Test the configuration.

   $ sudo /usr/share/logstash/bin/logstash --path.config /etc/logstash/conf.d --config.test_and_exit
   Configuration OK

   Always test configurations before restarting Logstash in production.

6. Restart Logstash to apply the pipeline changes.

   $ sudo systemctl restart logstash
   (no output)

   Ensure filter logic aligns with data formats to avoid parsing errors.

7. Monitor Logstash logs for any warnings or errors.

   Optimizing pipelines improves data processing efficiency and clarity.