What is MIME type "application/vnd.ms-htmlhelp"?

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

application/vnd.ms-htmlhelp is a MIME type used for Microsoft's compiled HTML help files.
It tells systems how to handle and display integrated help content in software.

These files bundle HTML pages, images, scripts, and links into one self-contained file. They let users navigate with a table of contents and search keywords easily. They are optimized for fast loading and smooth user interaction.

Main use case: Provide interactive, in-application help for Windows software.
Structured content: Bundles text, images, and navigation tools in one file.
Efficient design: Enables quick access and search within help manuals.

This MIME type is associated with files like CHM and CHW.
For more technical details on these formats, visit the provided external links.

Associated file extensions

.chm, .chw

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.ms-htmlhelp

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.chm, .chw

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.