What is MIME type "font/sfnt"?

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

font/sfnt is a MIME type for fonts that use the SFNT container format. This format holds scalable vector data that defines each glyph's shape. It bundles together outlines, metrics, and metadata to display text crisply at any size.

The SFNT format underpins both modern and legacy font technologies. It is used in files such as TTF and OTF, and it also applies to other less common formats like SIL, CFF, and AAT.

Main use-case: Ensures consistent, scalable text rendering for screens and print.
Functionality: Combines glyph outlines with typographic details like hinting and kerning.
Usage: Employed by operating systems, web browsers, and design applications to render fonts accurately.
Advanced features: Supports complex typographic behavior essential for high-quality digital typography.

For more on how the SFNT format works, refer to resources like Wikipedia: SFNT.

Associated file extensions

.ttf, .otf, .sil, .cff, .aat

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: font/sfnt

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="font/sfnt">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', 'font/sfnt');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.ttf, .otf, .sil, .cff, .aat

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.