What is MIME type "application/cbor"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

application/cbor is a MIME type that defines how data is encoded in a compact, binary format. It represents the Concise Binary Object Representation used to store and transmit structured data efficiently.

Unlike text-based formats, this binary format keeps files small and speeds up processing. It is similar in role to JSON but optimized for faster transmission and lower overhead.

• Efficient Communication – ideal for low-bandwidth networks and fast data exchange.
• Structured Data Storage – handles arrays, maps, and various data types.
• Interoperability – popular in Internet of Things devices and embedded systems.

A file that uses this MIME type is often seen with the CBOR file extension. It is used when applications need a compact and fast way to encode complex data structures.

For more technical details, visit the IANA Media Types listing or check Wikipedia on CBOR.

Associated file extensions

.cbor

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:

    Content-Type: application/cbor    
  

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:

    <a href="file.dat" type="application/cbor">Download file</a>    
  

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:

    const http = require('http');    
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {    
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'application/cbor');    
      res.end('Content here');    
    }).listen(3000);    
  

Associated file extensions

.cbor