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Error Log Monitor

By Janis Elsts

Site Administration & Utilities / Site Health & Diagnostics

Error Log Monitor Review - In-Depth Analysis

Displays the latest PHP error log messages in a Dashboard widget. Sends email notifications for logged errors.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.94/10

User Rating

4.3/5 (based on 48+ reviews)

Active Installations

20,000+

Update Frequency

Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

1 / 10 (Very Low Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

This plugin adds a Dashboard widget that displays the latest messages from your PHP error log. It can also send you email notifications about newly logged errors.

Features include automatic detection of error log location, configurable number of displayed log entries, and the option to clear the log file. The dashboard widget is only visible to administrators and is optimized to work well with large log files.

To use the plugin, install it and enable the 'PHP Error Log' widget through the 'Screen Options' panel on the Dashboard. Email notifications are disabled by default but can be configured through the widget settings.

Comparing to Alternatives

Error Log Monitor is a straightforward plugin designed to help users keep track of PHP errors on their WordPress sites. When compared to similar plugins, it offers a focused set of features with some limitations.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Simple and easy to use interface for monitoring errors.
Provides filtering options to focus on important log messages.
Quick updates addressing user feedback for readability improvements.

Weaknesses

Lacks advanced features found in some alternatives.
No clear guidance on locating error logs in the admin area.
User interface choices like widget format may be impractical for some.
No pro version to extend functionality.

User Sentiment Analysis

User comments reveal appreciation for the plugin's core functionality but also highlight areas needing improvement.

Positive highlights

"Nice plugin! Makes it easy to keep up with errors." – John Dorner
"Both Free and Pro and very helpful." – enmatthias (note: pro version mention may be inaccurate)
"Extracts valuable information from the morass of log messages." – Barry Brunning
"A suggested enhancement to make the monitor more readable has been delivered quickly." – Barry Brunning

Common complaints

Plugin blocks its own deactivation to force feedback, which frustrates users.
Confusing location of PHP error logs in the admin area.
Widget format is considered unpractical by some users.
Needs updates for compatibility with latest WordPress versions.

Weaknesses

Error messages could be improved, especially for server setup issues.
No clear pro version despite some user mentions, causing confusion.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users seeking a simple and straightforward plugin to monitor PHP errors without needing advanced features.

Not ideal for

Those who want a more feature-rich error log manager or prefer a plugin with a clear pro version and better user interface options.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version offers basic error log monitoring with filtering options and a widget interface for easy access.

Final Verdict

Error Log Monitor provides a basic yet functional solution for tracking PHP errors in WordPress. Its simplicity is a strength but also limits its appeal for users needing more advanced features or better usability.

While user feedback has led to some improvements, issues like the plugin's deactivation blocking and unclear error log locations detract from the overall experience. Users should consider their specific needs before choosing this plugin.