What is MIME type "application/vnd.ms-word.template.macroenabled.12"?

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

The MIME type application/vnd.ms-word.template.macroenabled.12 is used by Microsoft Word for files that combine a preset document layout with built-in automation code. It falls under the Office Open XML family and is designed to store a standard template that can launch macros—small programs written in VBA—to perform repetitive or complex tasks automatically.

This format is ideal when you need a reusable framework that guarantees consistent formatting and supports automation. Users rely on it for creating documents that start with preformatted content, styles, and interactive features built right in. It is especially helpful in environments where tasks must be standardized and enhanced with automated procedures.

Template Reusability – Saves time by offering consistent layouts and formatting across multiple documents.
Macro Functionality – Embeds code to automate actions and processes within documents.
Enhanced Productivity – Streamlines workflow by reducing manual formatting and task repetition.

Files using this MIME type often have identifiers like DOTM, which clearly indicate their macro-enabled template status. Other related Microsoft Word formats include DOCX, DOC, DOTX, DOCM, and DOT. However, this specific MIME type targets template files that are capable of running macros.

For further reading on Microsoft Word file types and their functionalities, you might visit resources like Microsoft Word on Wikipedia.

Associated file extensions

.docx, .doc, .dotx, .docm, .dot, .dotm

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.ms-word.template.macroenabled.12

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/vnd.ms-word.template.macroenabled.12">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.template.macroenabled.12');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.docx, .doc, .dotx, .docm, .dot, .dotm

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.