What is MIME type "video/ogg"?

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

video/ogg signals video content stored in the open Ogg container format. It delivers streaming and local video with open codecs like Theora for video and supports audio tracks encoded with codecs such as Vorbis, OPUS, or Speex.

This MIME type is favored in projects that require a patent-free solution and better browser support without proprietary restrictions. It is common in open-source media players and web applications that stream video directly in the browser.

Open Standard: The format is free and avoids licensing fees.
Multi-codec Support: It handles video with Theora and various audio codecs.
Efficient Streaming: Suited for fast loading and smooth playback online.

Files using this MIME type come with various extensions such as OGG, OGV, OPUS, SPX, OGA, OGX, and OGM.

For more detailed specifications, see the IANA video/ogg page or check the Ogg Wikipedia entry.

Associated file extensions

.ogg, .opus, .ogv, .spx, .oga, .ogx, .ogm

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: video/ogg

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.ogg, .opus, .ogv, .spx, .oga, .ogx, .ogm

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.