How to Generate a HAR File

Last updated: March 26, 2026

Overview

A HAR (HTTP Archive) file records all network activity between your browser and a web application. It helps the Astra team identify issues, analyze requests and responses, and detect endpoints that may not appear during automated scans.

When is this needed?

You may be asked to generate a HAR file when:

  • Certain API endpoints are missing in scans

  • You encounter errors on the application

  • A feature is not working as expected

  • Support needs deeper visibility into browser activity

Supported Browsers

This guide covers:

  • Google Chrome

  • Mozilla Firefox

  • Safari

  • Microsoft Edge

Steps to Generate a HAR File

Google Chrome

  1. Open Chrome and navigate to the page where the issue occurs

  2. Click the ⋮ (three-dot menu) in the top-right corner

  3. Go to More Tools → Developer Tools

  4. Select the Network tab

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  1. Ensure the record button (●) is red (click if not)

  2. Enable Preserve log

  3. Click the Clear (🗑) button to remove existing logs

  4. Reproduce the issue while keeping the Network tab open

  5. Click the Export HAR (download) button

  6. Save the file as “HAR with Content”

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Mozilla Firefox

  1. Open Firefox and navigate to the page where the issue occurs

  2. Press F12 and go to the Network tab

  3. Reproduce the issue while requests are being recorded

  4. Right-click anywhere under the File column

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  1. Select “Save All As HAR”

  1. Save the file to your system

Safari

  1. Open Safari and navigate to the page where the issue occurs

  2. Enable the Develop menu:

    • Go to Safari → Settings → Advanced

    • Enable “Show Develop menu”

  3. Click Develop → Show Web Inspector

  4. Go to the Network tab

  5. Reproduce the issue while recording is active

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  1. Click the Export icon

  2. Save the HAR file

Microsoft Edge

  1. Open Edge and navigate to the page where the issue occurs

  2. Press F12 to open Developer Tools

  3. Go to the Network tab

  4. Ensure recording is enabled

  5. Reproduce the issue

  6. Click Export HAR

  7. Save the file to your computer

Expected Outcome

You will have a HAR file containing all network activity during the session, which can be shared with the support team for further analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always reproduce the issue completely before exporting the HAR file

  • Keep the Network tab open throughout the process

  • HAR files may contain sensitive data such as cookies, tokens, or personal information — review before sharing

  • Do not modify the HAR file after exporting

Need Help?

If you are unable to generate the HAR file or face any issues, please contact the support team with details of the problem.