What is MIME type "application/vnd.pdf"?

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.pdf is used for files in the PDF Family. It tells systems that the file is a self-contained document with fixed formatting.

It supports text, images, fonts, and layout instructions. This makes documents look the same across different devices and operating systems.

Key functionalities and uses:

Document distribution: Share finalized documents without losing design or layout.
Consistent viewing: Ensure that what you see on one device is the same on another.
Archival purposes: Preserve official records and publications reliably.
Interactive forms: Embed links, fillable forms, and other interactive elements.

This MIME type directs software and web browsers on how to process and display the file. For more detailed insights, visit PDF Overview.

Associated file extensions

.pdf

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.pdf

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.pdf

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.