When ingesting files, which setting determines the type of data being indexed?

The sourcetype setting is crucial when ingesting files into Splunk because it defines the format and structure of the incoming data. By assigning a sourcetype, Splunk can correctly interpret the data, allowing it to apply the appropriate parsing rules, extract fields, and organize the information effectively. This understanding enables accurate searching, reporting, and data analysis.

For instance, if you are ingesting logs from a web server, specifying the correct sourcetype would allow Splunk to recognize the log's format, such as common log format (CLF) or web access logs, and process the entries accordingly. This ensures that any queries run against that data can utilize meaningful fields, making the data much easier to analyze.

In contrast, the host setting designates the origin of the data, the source relates to the actual file or data stream being indexed, and the input method specifies how the data is being ingested (e.g., via file, API, or a forwarder). While these settings are important, they do not influence how Splunk interprets the content of the data in the same way that the sourcetype does.