Network performance problems can be frustrating and can significantly hamper your online experience. An effective way to troubleshoot such issues involves gathering precise data regarding your network connection. This guide will explain how to capture MTR (My Traceroute) and PCAP (Packet Capture) on both Windows and Linux, providing crucial information for resolving network-related issues.
Section 1: Capturing an MTR on Windows and Linux
MTR (My Traceroute) is a tool that merges the functionalities of traceroute and ping, offering detailed data about the network path and performance between your device and a targeted server.
On Windows:
Step 1: Download and Install WinMTR
- Visit the WinMTR webpage at https://sourceforge.net/projects/winmtr/.
- Click "Download" and save the file.
- Extract the downloaded ZIP file to your computer.
Step 2: Run WinMTR
- Navigate to the extracted folder and open WinMTR.exe.
- Right-click the file and select "Run as administrator."
Step 3: Configure and Save MTR Report
- Enter the target server's domain name or IP address in the "Host" field. Click "Start."
- Allow the test to run for about 5-10 minutes.
- Click "Stop," then "Export TEXT" to save the MTR report.
On Linux:
Step 1: Install MTR
sudo apt update && sudo apt install mtr -y
Step 2: Run MTR
mtr TARGET_IP_OR_DOMAIN
Step 3: Save MTR Output Press "d" to switch to the report mode. Then, let it run for 5-10 minutes. Press "q" to quit, then copy and save the output.
In both cases, forward the MTR report via a support ticket for further analysis.
Section 2: Capturing a PCAP on Windows and Linux
PCAP (Packet Capture) is a technique that logs data packets transmitted and received by your device, assisting in network issue diagnosis.
On Windows:
Step 1: Download and Install Wireshark
- Visit https://www.wireshark.org/download.html.
- Download the installer suitable for your Windows version (32-bit or 64-bit).
- Execute the installer and follow the prompts to install Wireshark.
Step 2: Run Wireshark
- Open Wireshark.
- Right-click the icon and select "Run as administrator."
Step 3: Capture and Save PCAP File
- Select the network interface for traffic capture (usually the busiest one).
- Click the "Start" button (shark fin icon) to begin.
- After 5-10 minutes, click the "Stop" button (red square icon).
- Go to "File" > "Save As" to save the PCAP file.
On Linux:
Step 1: Install tcpdump
sudo apt update && sudo apt install tcpdump -y
Step 2: Capture and Save PCAP File
sudo tcpdump -i eth0 -w network_issue.pcap
Replace eth0 with your network interface.
In both cases, submit the PCAP file through a support ticket for further analysis.
Conclusion:
By following these procedures to capture MTR and PCAP data on Windows and Linux, you equip us with critical information to