Centralizing logs using open-source tools like rsyslog, Logstash, and Elasticsearch on Ubuntu 14.04 can significantly streamline log management and analysis. This process involves setting up a centralized rsyslog server to collect logs from multiple systems, which are then forwarded to Logstash for parsing and enrichment before being stored in an Elasticsearch server. The guide details each step, starting with configuring the rsyslog servers to send and receive log data, formatting logs into JSON, and configuring Logstash to handle these logs. The final step ensures Elasticsearch is correctly receiving data, enabling users to audit, monitor, and analyze server and application performance efficiently. With logs stored in Elasticsearch, users are encouraged to explore Kibana for data visualization, enhancing the utility of their log data through graphical representations.