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

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

application/vnd.ms-word is the MIME type used for Microsoft Word files.
It helps the operating system and applications understand that a file is a Word document. This ensures that the file opens in the correct program for editing or viewing.

Core purpose: Identifies documents created with Microsoft Word, so compatible programs handle them correctly.
Content type: The files use a binary format that supports rich text, images, and formatting details.
Legacy use: Widely used in older versions of Microsoft Office, making it important for compatibility with legacy systems and workflows.

Files using this MIME type include traditional document files like DOC and template files like DOT.
For more technical details, consult the IANA media type registry.

Associated file extensions

.doc, .dot

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.ms-word

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.doc, .dot

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.