Which option specifies the start time for the query range in Splunk?

In Splunk, the parameter that specifies the start time for the query range is "earliest=". This parameter is used when crafting search queries to define the earliest time from which events should be considered in the results. By utilizing "earliest=", users can filter the data returned based on a specific time frame, ensuring that analyses and reports focus only on the relevant subset of data that falls within a defined time period.

The significance of "earliest=" lies in its ability to control the temporal scope of the search, which is crucial for performance and relevance when dealing with large datasets. By controlling the start time, users can efficiently narrow down their analysis to crucial events that may have occurred within a specific time range, enhancing both the speed and effectiveness of investigations.

The other options relate to timing parameters but do not accurately reflect the correct syntax used in Splunk for defining the start of the time range in searches. Understanding the correct usage of parameters like "earliest=" is fundamental when working with Splunk to retrieve precise and meaningful data.