# Adding custom MIME types in cPanel

> Add custom MIME types in cPanel so browsers know how to handle files with unusual or custom extensions.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/cpanel/advanced/mime-types-in-cpanel/

**MIME types** (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) tell web browsers how to handle different kinds of files. For example, the MIME type `application/pdf` instructs browsers to open `.pdf` files as Portable Document Format files. In cPanel, you can configure **custom MIME types** so that browsers correctly interpret files with unusual or custom extensions.

## Why Use MIME Types?

- Ensure browsers recognize and open files correctly.
- Support custom file extensions (e.g., `.mypdf` → open as PDF).
- Improve compatibility for specialized applications or file formats.

## Adding a Custom MIME Type

1. **Log in to cPanel.**
2. On the **Tools page → Advanced section**, click **MIME Types**.
3. Under **Create a MIME Type**:

   - In the **MIME Type** box, enter the type (e.g., `application/pdf`).
   - In the **Extension(s)** box, enter the file extension(s) you want to associate (e.g., `mypdf`).
4. Click **Add**.
5. cPanel adds the custom MIME type.

**Example:** If you have files with the `.mypdf` extension, you can add a MIME type `application/pdf` so browsers treat them as PDF files.

## Deleting a Custom MIME Type

1. **Log in to cPanel.**
2. Go to **Tools → Advanced → MIME Types**.
3. Under **User Defined MIME Types**, locate the MIME type you want to remove.
4. Click **Delete**.
5. cPanel deletes the custom MIME type.

 You cannot delete system‑wide MIME types only custom ones you’ve created.

> **Note:**
- ### MIME types vs Apache Handlers

  - **MIME types** → Tell the **browser** how to process files.
  - **Apache handlers** → Tell the **server** how to process files.
- Adding incorrect MIME types can cause files to display improperly.
- Always check existing MIME types before creating new ones to avoid conflicts.