What is MIME type "text/json"?

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

text/json is a MIME type that tells your computer the file contains plain text formatted as JSON.
It uses a simple, human-readable structure to store data. Programs that see this type know to treat the content as textual data with structured information.

It enables data interchange between applications, especially over the web.
It is used for configuration files, backups, and reports in many software projects.
It ensures that a file is parsed correctly by telling programs it is JSON-based text.

Many files use this MIME type to store or exchange data. For example, a backup file for a Bitcoin wallet might use the TXT format; standard data files use JSON; web data captured from browsing sessions often use HAR; and various project files use formats like HPRJ or APJ. Other specialized file types such as C2D, VRX, MRT, PZI, and more also use this approach.
This MIME type makes it easy for both developers and end users to work with data. It’s central to many web applications and software tools that rely on the lightweight, text-based nature of JSON for configuration, reporting, and project data.
Learn more about how MIME types function on sites like IANA Media Types or about the JSON format on JSON.org.

Associated file extensions

.txt, .json, .har, .hprj, .apj, .c2d, .vrx, .mrt, .pzi, .jem, .jspf, .yyp, .bbmodel, .camm, .ely, .etherpad, .fogui, .gliffy, .hcxs, .ipuz, .isw, .maxpat, .px4, .pzw

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: text/json

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.txt, .json, .har, .hprj, .apj, .c2d, .vrx, .mrt, .pzi, .jem, .jspf, .yyp, .bbmodel, .camm, .ely, .etherpad, .fogui, .gliffy, .hcxs, .ipuz, .isw, .maxpat, .px4, .pzw

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.