Where is qkview file located

Overview

The qkview file is a diagnostic tool output generated on F5 BIG-IP devices to assist in troubleshooting network and system performance issues. It compiles essential system information into a single compressed file for analysis by support engineers.

This file is critical during technical support cases, allowing F5 Networks support teams to assess device health without direct access. Understanding its location and generation process helps administrators streamline issue resolution.

• Default location: The qkview file is saved in the /var/tmp/ directory unless manually redirected during generation.
• File naming convention: Typically named qkview.hostname.date.tar, making it easy to identify by device and timestamp.
• Access method: Administrators must use SSH or console access to the BIG-IP system to generate and retrieve the file.
• Generation command: Running qkview in the shell initiates the collection of logs, configuration files, and system diagnostics.
• Retention policy: Files in /var/tmp/ are not automatically deleted and may persist until manually removed or overwritten.

How It Works

The qkview utility gathers system-level data from F5 devices to create a comprehensive snapshot used for diagnostics. Each component collected serves a specific purpose in identifying configuration or performance anomalies.

• System Configuration: Extracts running configuration files including LTM, GTM, and ASM settings to evaluate policy and object setup.
• Log Files: Gathers /var/log/messages, /var/log/ltm, and other logs to review event history and error patterns over the past 24–72 hours.
• Network Stack Data: Captures interface statistics, routing tables, and connection tables to assess traffic flow and potential bottlenecks.
• Hardware Status: Includes output from tmsh show sys hardware to verify chassis, fan, and power supply integrity.
• Software Version: Records the BIG-IP version and hotfix level, crucial for identifying known bugs or compatibility issues.
• Process Health: Lists active services and their status, such as tmm, named, and sshd, to detect service crashes or hangs.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares qkview with similar diagnostic tools used in network environments:

While qkview is specific to F5 devices, other vendors offer similar utilities with varying output locations and data scope. The qkview file stands out for its automated aggregation across modules and integration with F5’s support infrastructure. Unlike packet capture tools, it focuses on configuration and system state rather than real-time traffic.

Why It Matters

Locating and generating the qkview file efficiently can significantly reduce downtime during critical network incidents. Its structured format enables rapid analysis by support teams, accelerating resolution times.

• Reduces MTTR: Mean Time to Repair drops by 30–50% when engineers receive complete qkview files promptly.
• Support requirement: F5 support often requires a qkview file before escalating a case to engineering teams.
• Offline analysis: Engineers can review the file without accessing the live system, minimizing risk.
• Compliance: Retaining qkview files helps meet audit and incident reporting standards in regulated industries.
• Capacity planning: Historical qkview outputs can reveal trends in resource usage over time.
• Proactive monitoring: Automated scripts can generate qkview files weekly to establish performance baselines.

Understanding where the qkview file is located and how to generate it ensures faster troubleshooting and better collaboration with technical support teams. It remains a cornerstone of F5 device maintenance and incident response workflows.