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How to capture a HAR file
Aifric Delahunty avatar
Written by Aifric Delahunty
Updated this week

What is a HAR file?

A HAR file can be used to analyse 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) and go to the Sensat project where the issue is occurring.

  2. Open the Developer Tools (Console) on the Sensat project page you are experiencing the issue, 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.

    The console will record on the page/tab you open it so make sure it's on the page with the issue.

  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 should start recording as soon as you open it.

    To check it is recording look for the round record button in the upper left corner and check that it's red. If it's grey, click the button to start recording.

  4. In the main browser window load the Sensat Platform, keeping the developer tools open.

  5. Reproduce the issue you're experiencing (this may involve refreshing the page if your issue relates to data loading). Let the platform fully load, or wait 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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