What is MIME type "application/patch-ops-error+xml"?

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

application/patch-ops-error+xml is a MIME type that uses XML to format error messages from patch operations. It conveys structured error details when a patch request fails.

This type helps systems return clear information on what went wrong during partial updates. It is used primarily in networked and API-driven environments where patch methods modify resources.

Communicates specific error details in patch transactions
Provides structured, machine-readable feedback
Facilitates troubleshooting and debugging in automated systems

Files like XER use this MIME type.

For more technical insights, visit the IANA registration.

Associated file extensions

.xer

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/patch-ops-error+xml

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/patch-ops-error+xml">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/patch-ops-error+xml');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.xer

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.