What is MIME type "application/vnd.ms-cab-compressed"?
A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.
application/vnd.ms-cab-compressed is a MIME type that defines a compressed archive format from Microsoft.It bundles several files into one package for compact storage and easy distribution.
This format makes it simpler for Windows to install software, drivers, and system updates. It also supports digital signatures for security.
The type is often seen in the following scenarios:
- Installation Packages: Used to compress files for program installations and driver deployments.
- Update Files: Powers standalone update packages that Windows installs.
- Application Assets: Employed by programs like IncrediMail and InfoPath to package skins, animations, forms, and other resources.
Each linked file type serves specific roles within its application environment, reinforcing how versatile the CAB format can be.
Associated file extensions
.cab, .ims, .xsn, .ima, .msu, .imf, .imn, .ime, .imw, .devicemetadata-ms, .diagcab, .ltw
Usage Examples
HTTP Header
When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:
Content-Type: application/vnd.ms-cab-compressed
HTML
In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:
<a href="file.dat" type="application/vnd.ms-cab-compressed">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/vnd.ms-cab-compressed');
res.end('Content here');
}).listen(3000);
Associated file extensions
.cab, .ims, .xsn, .ima, .msu, .imf, .imn, .ime, .imw, .devicemetadata-ms, .diagcab, .ltw
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.