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How to capture a HAR file
Aifric Delahunty avatar
Written by Aifric Delahunty
Updated over 2 months ago

What is a HAR file?

A HAR file can be used to analysis the status of your network, it is primarily used for identifying performance issues, such as bottlenecks, slow load times, and page rendering problems. They are therefore useful when helping us to identify the cause behind performance issues that you may be experiencing. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to capture a HAR file.

Step-by-step guide

  1. Open your browser, e.g. Chrome or Edge.

  2. Open the Developer Tools (Console) by using the following keyboard shortcuts:

    • MacOS: Option + ⌘ + J

    • Windows/Linux: Shift + CTRL + J

    • This will open a new panel at the side or bottom of your browser window, called the Developer Tools.

  3. In the Developer Tools window, navigate to the "Network" tab (see screenshot below). This tab logs all network activity in your browser, which is essential for capturing the HAR file. It will start recording as soon as you open it.

  4. Switch back to the main browser window and load the Sensat Platform.

  5. Reproduce the issue you're experiencing. Let the platform fully load, or wait for 2-3 minutes while the page gathers data.

  6. Return to the "Network" tab in the Developer Tools and download the HAR file, as shown in the screenshot below:

  7. Send the HAR file to Sensat for analysis and investigation, along with:

    1. Project URL

    2. Time of day

    3. User email used for authentication

    4. A brief description of what you’re observing in the browser (or what you are expecting to be there but it is missing). A screenshot of the browser view will help as well.

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