Human Extended

    How to generate a HAR file in Microsoft Edge

    Dave Pinch
    ,

    A HAR file (HTTP Archive) is a file format that records the interactions between your web browser and a website. It captures detailed information such as each network request and response. HAR files are often requested by developers and support teams to diagnose bugs and other issues.

    Typically, you will be asked to generate a HAR while reproducing a bug. This means starting a recording and then repeating the same steps that are known to cause an issue. All mainstream browsers are capable of recording HAR files.

    Wrong browser?

    Instructions

    1. Get ready to start recording the HAR file

      Go to the page or location where you want the recording to start.

    2. Press F12 to open Microsoft Edge DevTools

      If this is your first time opening DevTools, then a panel will appear on the right side of the browser window. Otherwise, it will open in the last location you docked the panel.

    3. Resize or reposition the DevTools panel (optional)

      The DevTools panel is very compact with many buttons. You can resize the panel by dragging its inner border, which can help bring more buttons into view. If a different location would be more convenient, you can click the … button in its upper-right corner and select a different Dock location.

    4. Click the network button on the top row of the DevTools panel

      The network icon looks like a Wi-Fi icon. If you hover your mouse over the icon, it will say “Network”. It may be difficult to see depending on your screen size, or it might not even be visible. If you don’t see it, click the + button and select Network.

    5. Ensure the recording has started

      Recording should have automatically started but you should confirm. Look at the row of buttons under the Network button. On the very left you should see a red square surrounded by a circle. This indicates that recording has started. You can click this button to stop recording if you want to restart at a different location.

    6. Reproduce the issue while keeping the DevTools panel open

      Fully reproduce your issue from start to end. You want to ensure all network events are captured.

    7. Click the export button to download the HAR file

      Look for the button that looks like a downward error. If you hover your mouse over it, the tooltip is “Export HAR (sanitized)…”.

    8. Save the HAR file on your computer

      The standard dialog box will appear for you to select a location and filename of the HAR file. Save it to a location you will remember.

    9. Close DevTools

      You can press F12 again, or click the X button in the upper-right corner of the DevTools panel.

    Reference

    License

    Feel free to remix this content for your website.

    Licensed under CC BY 4.0

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