Can’t Download a HAR file and the only option is MS DOS Application

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When attempting to download and save a HAR file, the only option the user has is MS DOS Application.

Applies to

  • Windows

  • Downloads

  • File Explorer

  • HAR File

Steps

  1. Save it anyway: Go ahead and click save, even if it says "MS-DOS Application" or looks like an app icon.

  2. Rename the file extension: Locate the downloaded file on your computer.

    1. If you don't see .com or .har at the end of the filename, you need to turn on extensions. (In Windows File Explorer, click View at the top, then check the box for File name extensions).

    2. Right-click the file, select Rename, and completely delete whatever extension is there (like .com).

    3. Type .har at the very end of the file name (e.g., 8x8_log.har) and press Enter.

  3. Confirm the change: Windows will pop up a scary warning saying, "If you change a file name extension, the file might become unusable." Click Yes.

Expected result

Once renamed to .har, the file will instantly revert back to a standard web log file that you can successfully email to 8x8 support or upload to your ticket!

Additional information

  • What you are seeing as a "MS DOS Application" is actually a quirky Windows file-handling glitch, not a limitation of your browser.

  • Windows is misinterpreting the file extension because of how it handles .com URLs or certain filenames, mistaking your export for an ancient MS-DOS .com executable application.

  • You can absolutely still get your HAR file; you just have to bypass Windows trying to turn it into an app.