What is MIME type "application/pgp-encrypted"?

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

application/pgp-encrypted indicates that the file’s contents have been encrypted using the PGP method. This ensures that the data remains unreadable without the correct decryption key.

• Encryption: Provides strong protection to data.
• Confidentiality: Ensures messages remain private and can only be accessed by authorized people.
• Data Integrity: Helps verify that the content was not altered during transit.

Files labeled with this MIME type typically use the extension PGP. This MIME type is most common in secure email communications and file transfers where protection against unauthorized access is essential.

The method encrypts data by combining symmetric and public-key systems to create a secure envelope. This layering makes the encryption robust and suitable for sensitive content while keeping operations efficient.

Associated file extensions

.pgp

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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

    Content-Type: application/pgp-encrypted
  

HTML

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

    <a href="file.dat" type="application/pgp-encrypted">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/pgp-encrypted');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);
  

Associated file extensions

.pgp