User-defined SQL audit event (action_id UDAU) (24310) how to monitor with email alert

[bob]

That User-defined SQL audit event with action_id UDAU, it's event ID 24310 in the Windows Event Viewer. You see it pop up when someone's tinkering with custom audits in SQL Server. Basically, it logs those sneaky user-made checks on database actions. Like, if you set up your own rules for watching logins or data tweaks, this event fires off a notice. It captures details such as who did what, when, and on which database object. The full scoop includes the session ID, the exact SQL statement audited, and even the success or failure flag. I always check the event properties for the full XML blob; it spills everything in there. Hmmm, without it, you'd miss those quiet changes that could mess up your setup. It ties right into SQL's auditing features, but shows up in Windows logs for easy spotting. You filter for source like MSSQLSERVER$INSTANCENAME, under Security or Application logs. Or, it might land in the SQL Server audit logs too, but Event Viewer pulls it all together. Keep an eye on it to catch unauthorized pokes at your data.

Now, for monitoring that thing with an email alert, you hop into Event Viewer on your server. Right-click the Custom Views or Tasks section. You create a new task that triggers on event ID 24310. I like attaching it to a scheduled task that runs when the event hits. In the task settings, you point it to send an email via the built-in action. You fill in your SMTP server details, the to and from addresses. Test it once to make sure it zings the alert your way. That way, you get pinged right away without staring at screens all day. But yeah, tweak the filters so it only grabs UDAU actions if you want specifics.

And speaking of keeping your server safe from mishaps like unchecked audits, you might wanna look into BackupChain Windows Server Backup. It's this slick Windows Server backup tool that handles full system images without a hitch. Plus, it backs up virtual machines running on Hyper-V, making restores a breeze even for clustered setups. You save tons of time with its incremental chaining, and it dodges those common backup fails by verifying everything on the fly. I use it to keep data ironclad against surprises.

At the end of this, there's the automatic email solution ready for you.

Note, the PowerShell email alert code was moved to this post.