Free online PCAPNG to PCAP converter
Easily convert pcapng files to pcap format using Wireshark or editcap for better compatibility.
Convert PCAPNG to PCAP online - free
Your file is processed instantly and deleted as soon as you download it.
Import a file from a URL
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How it works
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Upload your .pcapng file
Click to browse to select your file you want to convert or simply drag & drop your file into selected area.
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Perform .pcapng to .pcap conversion
After successful file upload, click to convert when you are ready.
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Download converted .pcap file
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How to convert pcapng to pcap file
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1yr
Understanding pcapng and pcap file formats
PCAPNG (Packet Capture Next Generation) and PCAP (Packet Capture) are both file formats used to store network packet data captured by network analysis tools. PCAP is the older, simpler format, widely supported by tools like Wireshark and tcpdump. PCAPNG is a more advanced format that supports additional metadata, multiple interfaces, and enhanced features, making it suitable for complex capture scenarios.
Why convert pcapng to pcap?
Converting pcapng to pcap is often necessary when working with legacy tools or systems that only support the older pcap format. Some analysis scripts and network appliances may not recognize the newer pcapng format, making conversion essential for compatibility.
How to convert pcapng to pcap
The most reliable way to convert pcapng files to pcap is by using Wireshark or its command-line utility editcap. Both are free and cross-platform.
Using Wireshark
- Open your pcapng file in Wireshark.
- Go to File → Export Specified Packets.
- In the Save as type dropdown, select pcap.
- Choose your destination and click Save.
Using editcap (command-line)
- Install Wireshark, which includes editcap.
- Run the following command:
editcap -F libpcap input.pcapng output.pcap
Best software for pcapng to pcap conversion
- Wireshark – The most popular and user-friendly network protocol analyzer, supporting both formats.
- Editcap – A command-line tool bundled with Wireshark, ideal for batch conversions and automation.
Conclusion
Converting pcapng to pcap is straightforward with tools like Wireshark and editcap. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of network analysis tools and legacy systems.
Note: This pcapng to pcap conversion record is incomplete, must be verified, and may contain inaccuracies. Please vote below whether you found this information helpful or not.
PCAPNG vs PCAP: format comparison
How the PCAPNG and PCAP formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.
| Property | .PCAPNG PCAP Next Generation Capture File Format | .PCAP Packet Capture |
|---|---|---|
| Open standard | Yes | Partly open |
| Compression | Uncompressed | Uncompressed |
| Typical file size | Large | Medium |
| Opens in a web browser | No | No |
| Further editing | Not directly editable | Limited |
| Metadata support | Extensive | Basic |
| Plain-text readable | No | No |
| Best used for | Data exchange | Data exchange |
| Introduced | 2008 | 1990 |
| Developer | IETF (working group; widely used in Wireshark/libpcap ecosystem) | The Tcpdump group / The Wireshark Foundation (common tools and ecosystem) |
| MIME type | application/octet-stream | application/vnd.tcpdump.pcap |
Information about file extensions and file types is provided by File-Extensions.org
Suggested software and links: pcapng to pcap converters
Frequently asked questions
Is the PCAPNG to PCAP converter free?
Yes, converting PCAPNG to PCAP on 101convert.com is completely free. No registration, email address or installation is required. If you need a higher file size limit or want to convert more files at once, see our plans.
How large can my PCAPNG file be?
You can upload PCAPNG files up to 200 MB and convert up to 10 files at once in a single batch.
What happens to my uploaded files?
Files are processed automatically and deleted from our servers within a few minutes after conversion. We never view or share your files.
Do I need to install any software to convert PCAPNG to PCAP?
No. The PCAPNG to PCAP conversion runs entirely online in your browser and works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iPhone.
Did the conversion fail?
In most cases, the cause is an incorrect file format. Please upload a valid PCAPNG file for this PCAPNG to PCAP conversion. Occasionally, the issue may be on our side. We analyze recurring conversion failures and disable or fix the converter if we detect a defect.