How to change timezone using the underlying /usr/bin/timedatectl command in Loginsight

Products

• VMware vRealize Log Insight 8.x

Issue/Introduction

All available timezones can be listed via command:
/usr/bin/timedatectl list-timezones

And it can be modified to the desired timezone:
/usr/bin/timedatectl set-timezone [Your/Timezone]  

Environment

VMware vRealize Log Insight 8.x

Cause

• Log Timestamp Discrepancy: Existing log files will retain timestamps in the old timezone, while new logs will use the new timezone. This can lead to confusion or errors when analyzing logs spanning the change period.
• Application and Service Impact: Some services may require a restart to recognize the new timezone setting, potentially causing temporary service interruptions.
• Risk of Misinterpretation: Correlating events across logs with mixed timezones may result in incorrect conclusions during troubleshooting or auditing.

Resolution

While it is possible to modify the timezone using the /usr/bin/timedatectl command, this approach is not recommended due to potential impacts on system behavior and log consistency.