file-type
Detect binary file types from buffers, streams, or files by checking magic numbers.
What is file-type?
file-type is a Node.js library that detects the type of binary files by checking their magic numbers—the unique byte sequences at the start of a file. It returns the file extension and MIME type, helping developers validate and process files accurately without relying on file extensions or metadata. The library supports a wide range of formats, from images and audio to archives and documents.
Node.js developers building applications that handle file uploads, media processing, or data validation, such as content management systems, file servers, or security tools.
Developers choose file-type for its reliability in detecting binary formats via magic numbers, extensive support for modern file types, and flexible API that works with buffers, streams, and files. Its ESM-first design and extensibility through custom detectors make it a robust choice for production environments.
Overview
Detect the file type of a file, stream, or data
Use Cases
Best For
- Validating file uploads in web applications to ensure correct format before processing
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