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wireshark_search_packets

Search packet capture files for specific data patterns using string, hex, regex, or Wireshark display filters. Returns matching packets from the capture.

Instructions

[Search] Find packets containing specific data.

Args: pcap_file: Path to capture file match_pattern: Pattern to search for search_type: Search method - 'string', 'hex', 'regex' limit: Maximum matches to return (default: 50) scope: Search scope - 'bytes' (default), 'details', or 'filter' - 'bytes': Searches raw packet payload (frame contains) - 'details': Searches decoded text layer (frame matches) - 'filter': Uses standard Wireshark display filter syntax (e.g. "http.response.code == 200")

Returns: List of matching packets (summary view) or JSON error

Errors: FileNotFound: pcap_file does not exist

Example: wireshark_search_packets("traffic.pcap", "password", scope="bytes") wireshark_search_packets("traffic.pcap", "http.response.code == 200", scope="filter")

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
limitNo
scopeNobytes
pcap_fileYes
search_typeNostring
match_patternYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations, the description explains search behavior and possible FileNotFound error, but lacks information on safety (read-only vs. modification) and performance constraints.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is well-structured with clear sections, bulleted parameters, errors, and examples. Every sentence adds necessary information without redundancy.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

The description covers all aspects for a searching tool, though the output format is only described as 'summary view' and the output schema is not shown, leaving slight ambiguity.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema has 0% description coverage, but the description fully explains all parameters, including defaults, meanings, and scope variants, adding significant value beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states 'Find packets containing specific data' and provides detailed scope options (bytes, details, filter), distinguishing it from sibling tools like capture, analysis, and extraction tools.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description gives explicit guidance on when to use each scope (bytes, details, filter) with examples, but does not mention alternatives or when not to use this tool.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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