What is MIME type "text/x-csv"?
A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.
text/x-csv is a MIME type that signals a plain text file in the comma-separated values format. It is used for storing tabular data with each value separated by a comma. This format is ideal for data exchange between programs.
Files labeled with this MIME type are commonly saved with the CSV extension. They allow easy import and export of data.
- Data interchange: Used to move data between spreadsheets, databases, and other software.
- Simple structure: The plain text design makes it easy to read and edit with basic text editors.
- Wide support: Many applications recognize both text/x-csv and the standardized text/csv formats.
This MIME type offers a flexible way to manage and share structured data without complex software requirements. For further reading on file types and formats, visit sites like Filext.
Associated file extensions
Usage Examples
HTTP Header
When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:
Content-Type: text/x-csv
HTML
In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:
<a href="file.dat" type="text/x-csv">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/x-csv');
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.