Using DWP Network Packet Capture

DWP Network Packet Capture gathers data from all active adapters, for use in troubleshooting network problems. For example, Network Packet Capture gathers data for each network interface card that is sending information. You only need to use this tool at the request of Technical Support. The DWP Latency Tester also gathers network packet data. For more information, see Using the DWP Latency Tester.

Each time a capture runs it creates the DWP_Pcaps folder on the desktop. The DWP_Pcaps folder contains a folder for each capture that is run. The capture folders are identified by the date and time of the capture, for example, 06-06-2011_12-55.

Note: Although each capture creates one capture file for each adapter on the machine, only the files for active adapters contain data. The other files contain only 24 bytes of header information and no data.

The capture folders contain two types of files:

• A .pcap file for each adapter located, identifying the data packets that have been sent over the network.
• The file AdapterNames.txt, which identifies the adapter traffic.

To run DWP Network Packet Capture:

• Hold down the Ctrl key and from the tray, right-click the DWP icon.
• From the pop-up menu, select Network Packet Capture.


The Network Packet Capture window displays with the path to your desktop in the Location for Output field.


• Do one of the following:
  • Click Start Capture to accept the default folder.
  • Browse to another folder and click Start Capture.
• Click Close to hide the window.

A notification bubble displays over the DWP icon periodically, reminding you that the capture is running.

Note: We recommend that you run DWP packet capture for only as long as it takes you to recreate the problem. This keeps file sizes to a minimum and makes it easier to identify problems.

• When you have captured enough data to recreate the problem you're troubleshooting, press Ctrol + Right Click on the the DWP icon to display the Network Packet Capture window.

  Click Stop Capture.

  The capture results are available in the DWP_Pcaps folder on your desktop or other specified location. The folder is identified by the date and time of the capture. The DWP_Pcaps folder contains one folder for each capture, which contains a .pcap file for each adapter found, and the AdapterNames.txt file.

  

  Note: Contact technical support to determine the best way to send the .pcap files to them. These files are very large.