Summary
The Dynatrace Synthetic Recorder uses Incognito mode when recording and playing back monitors to ensure that it is a clean browser instance without cookies or cached resources. However, some applications don't work as expected using Incognito mode, and some companies don't allow it to be used on their network.
This article explains how to configure the Dynatrace Synthetic Recorder to record and playback using the standard Chrome mode, without Incognito.
Important behavior differences to understand
- Local recording and playback
- May use cached resources and cookies when Incognito is disabled
- On‑demand and scheduled executions
- Always run in standard Chrome mode
- Always start with a clean cache and no cookies
- Behavior may differ from local playback
Because of this difference, a Browser Monitor may appear to work locally but behave differently when executed from a Synthetic location.
When should you disable Incognito mode?
Recording or playback without Incognito mode can be useful when:
- The application does not function correctly in Incognito mode
- Corporate policies block or restrict Incognito browsing
- The Synthetic Recorder extension is blocked in Incognito by browser policies
This setting only affects local recording and playback using the Synthetic Recorder extension.
How to record or playback without Incognito mode
Step 1: Update the Synthetic Recorder extension settings
- Open
chrome://extensions - Select Details on the Dynatrace Synthetic Recorder
- Disable Allow in Incognito
- Refresh the browser window used for recording
Step 2: Update the Browser Monitor configuration
In the WebUI, either
-
Edit an existing Browser Monitor and enable Use the recorder without incognito mode
- Open a monitor that you would like to record/ playback without Incognito mode
- Select Edit
- Select Recorded clickpath
- Enable Use the Recorder without incognito mode
or
-
Enable Use the recorder without incognito mode when creating a new Browser Monitor
- In the WebUI, Go to Synthetic.
- Select Create a synthetic monitor > Create a browser monitor.
- Enable Use the recorder without incognito mode
Limitations and considerations
- Cached resources and cookies used during local playback are not available during monitor execution
- Differences between local playback and execution results are expected
- This setting does not affect how Browser Monitors run on public or private locations
Understanding these limitations helps avoid false assumptions during troubleshooting.
What's Next
If steps do not resolve the issue, open a chat and provide the troubleshooting steps you have already completed.
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