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

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

The MIME type text/x-patch labels files that contain textual differences between file versions. These files show which lines have been added, removed, or changed. They are used to update source code using patch tools.

These files are plain text. They are often generated by utilities like diff and applied with patch. They help developers share changes quickly and accurately.

Common file types include PATCH, DIF, DIFF, PCH, and REJ.

Main use: Displaying changes between file versions.
Functionality: Guides patch utilities on how to update files.
Used in version control to review and apply code modifications.
Essential in collaborative software development and open-source projects.

For further details, check out this reference.

Associated file extensions

.patch, .dif, .diff, .pch, .rej

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: text/x-patch

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.patch, .dif, .diff, .pch, .rej

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.