Understanding Elixir Logger Handlers and Backends

In this article, the author discusses the complexities introduced in the Elixir Logger with version 1.15, aiming to clarify the roles of logger handlers and backends. Logger handlers, which are based on Erlang concepts, are crucial for configuring logging. The default handler implements overload protection and should be attached to applications on startup. LoggerBackends is a Hex package that served as the primary logging mechanism before version 1.15, offering its own handler and also implementing overload protection. The article includes essential details on how to extend logger handlers and provides advice on managing logging configurations effectively. A humorous analogy is made comparing LoggerBackends to a protective mother duck, emphasizing how it helps developers handle logging without having to deal with overload protection directly.