What is MIME type "application/vnd.rn-realmedia"?

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

application/vnd.rn-realmedia is the MIME type for RealMedia containers used to deliver streaming audio and video. It tells the system that the file uses RealNetworks’ format for multimedia content.

RealMedia files allow smooth streaming over the internet. They were designed to work well even in low-bandwidth situations. The format lets media players decode the audio and video correctly.

Files using this MIME type include formats like RAM, RM, RMVB, RA, RV, and RMA.

Main Use: Packaging and streaming multimedia content.
Technical Aspect: Supports both audio and video streams in one container.
Performance: Optimized for efficient streaming over limited bandwidth.
Compatibility: Works with RealPlayer and other compatible media players.

This MIME type helps systems and browsers recognize how to process files and stream media properly. For further details on RealNetworks’ media formats, visit their website.

Associated file extensions

.ram, .rm, .rmvb, .ra, .rv, .rma

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.rn-realmedia

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.ram, .rm, .rmvb, .ra, .rv, .rma

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.