What is MIME type "application/x-bdoc"?
A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.
application/x-bdoc is used for container files that store digitally signed documents. It bundles the original document with its cryptographic signature and related metadata.
This format increases trust by ensuring the document’s integrity and authenticity. It is crucial in legal and secure communications where proof of origin and content integrity matter.
Files using this MIME type include containers such as BDOC and ASICE.
- Digital signatures: They wrap the document with a signature to verify the issuer.
- Data integrity: They protect against unauthorized modifications.
- Secure document transmission between trusted parties.
- Compliance with electronic legal signing standards.
The container design supports both verifying the signer’s credentials and confirming that the document has not been altered. For further technical details, visit ETSI or check file information on Filext.
Associated file extensions
Usage Examples
HTTP Header
When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:
Content-Type: application/x-bdoc
HTML
In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:
<a href="file.dat" type="application/x-bdoc">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/x-bdoc');
res.end('Content here');
}).listen(3000);
Associated file extensions
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.