What does it mean to normalize timestamps in Splunk?

Normalizing timestamps in Splunk refers to the process of standardizing all timestamps to a uniform timezone, which is typically UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). This is important because data can originate from various sources that may record timestamps in different formats or timezones. By normalizing these timestamps to UTC, it ensures consistency across the data, making it easier to query and analyze. When data from multiple sources is compared or aggregated, a standardized timestamp allows for more accurate results, as it eliminates discrepancies that could arise from timezone differences.

Normalizing timestamps also facilitates event correlation, as events can be accurately tracked regardless of where they were generated. This standardization plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of time-based searches and reporting, allowing users to easily visualize trends and patterns in their data.