What is MIME type "application/vnd.tcpdump.pcap"?

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.tcpdump.pcap designates a file format that stores captured network packets. It is produced by tools like tcpdump to record network traffic. These files store packet data such as addresses, timestamps, and protocol details.

This format is used for:

• Network troubleshooting – to diagnose connectivity issues and abnormal traffic
• Packet analysis – to inspect protocol exchanges and performance parameters
• Security investigation – to detect suspicious network activity and potential breaches

Files using this MIME type may appear with different extensions such as DMP, PCAP, CAP, or PCAPNG. Each extension indicates a form of packet capture, with PCAPNG often representing the next-generation format.

The format is key for IT professionals to analyze real-time and recorded network data. Its structured data makes it easier to review and filter network events for faster problem-solving.

Learn more about tcpdump at tcpdump.org.

Associated file extensions

.dmp, .pcap, .cap, .pcapng

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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

    Content-Type: application/vnd.tcpdump.pcap
  

HTML

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

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

Associated file extensions

.dmp, .pcap, .cap, .pcapng