Convert pcapng to text

Convert PCAPNG to TEXT

Convert PCAPNG network capture files to readable text using Wireshark or tshark for easy analysis.

Make TEXT files online

We can't read PCAPNG files yet, so this conversion isn't available. If you can export your work to one of these formats - or others - we'll turn it into TEXT:

How to convert pcapng to text file

101convert.com Assistant Avatar

101convert.com assistant bot
1yr

Understanding pcapng and text file formats

PCAPNG (Packet Capture Next Generation) is a file format used to store network packet data captured by network analysis tools like Wireshark. It supports advanced features such as multiple interfaces, enhanced metadata, and improved extensibility compared to the older PCAP format.

A text file (.txt) is a simple, human-readable file format that contains unformatted text. Converting PCAPNG to a text file allows users to analyze, share, or process network packet data in a more accessible format.

Why convert pcapng to text?

Converting PCAPNG files to text files is useful for:

  • Extracting readable packet information for reports or documentation
  • Performing custom analysis with scripts or spreadsheet tools
  • Sharing network data without specialized software

How to convert pcapng to text file

The most reliable way to convert PCAPNG files to text is by using Wireshark or its command-line tool tshark. Both are free and widely used for network analysis.

Using Wireshark

  1. Open your PCAPNG file in Wireshark.
  2. Go to File → Export Packet Dissections → As Plain Text...
  3. Choose your export options (e.g., packet range, displayed columns).
  4. Select the destination and save the file with a .txt extension.

Using tshark (command-line)

  1. Open a terminal or command prompt.
  2. Run the following command:
    tshark -r input.pcapng -V > output.txt
  3. This command reads input.pcapng and writes detailed packet info to output.txt.

Best software for pcapng to text conversion

  • Wireshark – User-friendly GUI, detailed export options, free and open source.
  • tshark – Command-line tool for batch processing and automation, included with Wireshark.

Tips for effective conversion

  • Use filters in Wireshark or tshark to export only relevant packets.
  • Customize columns and details to control the amount of exported information.
  • For large files, consider exporting summaries instead of full packet details.

Note: This pcapng to text conversion record is incomplete, must be verified, and may contain inaccuracies. Please vote below whether you found this information helpful or not.

Was this information helpful?

PCAPNG vs TEXT: format comparison

How the PCAPNG and TEXT formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.

Comparison of the PCAPNG and TEXT file formats
Property .PCAPNG PCAP Next Generation Capture File Format .TEXT Plain Text
Open standard Yes Yes
Compression Uncompressed Uncompressed
Typical file size Large Very small
Opens in a web browser No Yes, natively
Further editing Not directly editable Easy
Metadata support Extensive None
Plain-text readable No Yes
Best used for Data exchange Data exchange
Introduced 2008
Developer IETF (working group; widely used in Wireshark/libpcap ecosystem)
MIME type application/octet-stream text/plain