What is MIME type "application/x-ms-shortcut"?

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

The MIME type application/x-ms-shortcut is used for Microsoft Windows shortcut files. It marks files that launch programs, folders, or documents quickly.
The file holds the target path, icon info, and run settings within a binary structure.

Shortcuts help streamline navigation in Windows. They power quick access from places like the desktop or start menu.

Provides fast launching of apps and resources
Stores metadata like working directory and display icon
Integrates into system menus and toolbars for efficient workflow

This MIME type is associated with files like LNK. For more on MIME types, see MIME on Wikipedia.

Associated file extensions

.lnk

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-ms-shortcut

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.lnk

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.