What is MIME type "text/x-expect"?

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

text/x-expect is the MIME type for scripts written in the Expect language.
It denotes plain text files that automate interactive command-line programs.
Expect scripts simulate user responses to prompts, making repetitive tasks run automatically.

Main use: Automate interactive sessions (for example, logging into remote systems).
Other uses: Testing software and automating command-line tool workflows.
Functionality: Processes terminal prompts by sending pre-set commands and responses.

Files of this type are commonly saved with the extension EXP.
This MIME type helps operating systems and editors treat these scripts as text files ready for scripting tasks.
Learn more about Expect on Wikipedia.

Associated file extensions

.exp

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: text/x-expect

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.exp

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.