What is kql example

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: KQL examples include queries like status:200, host:server*, and status:error AND service:api, demonstrating how to filter data using field names, wildcards, and boolean operators.

Key Facts

Understanding KQL Examples

KQL examples showcase the language's straightforward syntax for filtering data in Kibana. Each example demonstrates a different query pattern, from simple to complex, helping users understand how to construct queries for their specific needs.

Basic Field-Value Examples

The simplest KQL queries match specific values in named fields:

Wildcard Pattern Examples

Wildcards extend queries to match multiple similar values. The asterisk (*) acts as a wildcard:

Boolean Operator Examples

AND requires all conditions: status:error AND environment:production finds production errors only. OR accepts either condition: status:500 OR status:503 finds server errors. NOT excludes conditions: status:200 NOT method:HEAD finds successful responses excluding HEAD requests.

Range and Comparison Examples

Compare numeric and date values using >, <, >=, and <= operators:

Complex Query Combinations

Combine patterns for sophisticated filtering: status:error AND (service:api OR service:web) AND timestamp > 2024-01-01 finds recent errors in API or web services. Parentheses group OR conditions while AND operations bind tighter.

Related Questions

How do I search for multiple conditions in Kibana KQL?

Use AND to require all conditions, OR to accept any condition, and parentheses to group operations. For example: (status:400 OR status:401) AND service:auth applies authentication status filtering to the auth service.

What are KQL wildcards and how do I use them?

Wildcards use the asterisk (*) symbol to match any characters. Examples include service:api* to match api-v1, api-v2, or api-beta, allowing flexible pattern-based searching.

Can I use the NOT operator in KQL queries?

Yes, the NOT operator excludes matching values. For instance, status:200 NOT method:HEAD finds successful responses except HEAD requests, useful for filtering out specific cases.

Sources

  1. Elastic - Kibana Query Language Documentation Elastic License
  2. Elastic Blog - KQL Fundamentals Elastic License