What is MIME type "text/vbscript"?

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

The MIME type text/vbscript tells software that a file contains VBScript code. It is a text format used to deliver instructions usable by the Windows Script Host or legacy web browsers.

Files labeled with this MIME type often carry the file extension VBS. Code written in this language automates tasks and performs operations on Windows.

Key uses include:

Automation: Running scripts to manage system tasks and simplify routine operations.
Legacy Web Functionality: Embedding scripts in web pages for older versions of Internet Explorer.
Scripting Applications: Quick development of small programs for administrative tasks.

Learn more about VBScript on the VBScript Overview page.

Associated file extensions

.vbs

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: text/vbscript

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.vbs

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.