How to Enable Asterisk Debug Logging

Scope

How to enable highly verbose Asterisk service debug logging on your FreePBX (Asterisk) server.

It is rare to require this deep level of debug logging. Most issues do not require this level of detail (thousands of log entires for a single call) and can be effectively troubleshot with normal tools. Generally this should only be done when advised by Telos Alliance support.

Any information provided here regarding "Asterisk" or "FreePBX" servers refers only to Telos-commissioned FreePBX (Asterisk) servers used with Telos Alliance telephony products. While these are third-party servers and software, we are able to provide limited pointers and advice (like this article) under normal support.

We are also happy to provide advanced, dedicated support and training on a VX and FreePBX system through various paid TelosCare Service Level Agreement options, or a la carte via our Dedicated Remote and Onsite Support service. Please use the Contact Us link above for more information on these options. We can guide you through this entire process.

Procedure

  1. Via the command line of your server, issue the following commands:
    asterisk -r
    core set verbose 5
    core set debug 5
    sip set debug on
    module logger reload

  2. Replicate the issue, then download the full Asterisk log located at /var/log/asterisk/full, and send to Telos Support along with information that can be used to identify the issue, such as:

    1. exact time (hour and minute) the call established

    2. exact time (hour and minute) the call terminated

    3. if inbound call, caller ID of the calling party (name and or number)

    4. if outbound call, phone number that was dialed

  3. Revert the logging level using the following commands:
    asterisk -r
    core set verbose 0
    core set debug 0
    sip set debug off
    module logger reload

It is important to revert the logging level once you have replicated your issue to prevent your server hard drive from potentially becoming full.

Let us know how we can help

If you have further questions on this topic or have ideas about how we can improve this document, please contact us.