.MHT File Extension
What is an MHT file?
The .MHT file extension, also known as MHTML (MIME HTML), refers to a web archive format used to store web pages and their resources in a single file.
This format allows for the encapsulation of a complete web page, including text, images, and other media, into a single, self-contained file.
MHT files are particularly useful for archiving web content for offline access or for sharing web pages as a single document.
More Information.
The initial purpose of the MHTML format was to simplify the process of saving and sharing web content. Before MHTML, saving a web page required saving each resource separately, such as images and style sheets, which could be cumbersome and error-prone.
By creating a single file that bundled all the necessary components together, MHTML provided a more convenient solution for archiving and sharing web content.
The format gained traction with the introduction of Microsoft Internet Explorer 5 and was later supported by other web browsers, such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, albeit with varying degrees of compatibility.
MHTML is also used in other Microsoft applications, including Microsoft Word and Outlook, to handle web content.
Origin Of This File.
Microsoft introduced MHTML as part of its Internet Explorer browser. It is based on the MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) standard, which is a set of extensions used to support non-text data in email and web protocols.
MHTML combines multiple web resources into one file by encoding them using MIME. The format allows for the packaging of HTML content along with related files, such as images and scripts, into a single, portable file.
File Structure Technical Specification.
MHT files are essentially a combination of HTML and MIME standards. The file structure of an MHT file includes:
- MIME Headers: These headers define the type of content and how it should be interpreted. They include information such as content type, encoding, and boundaries separating different parts of the file.
- HTML Content: The HTML content of the web page is included as the main part of the MHT file. This content is similar to what you would find in a standard HTML file, including text, links, and formatting.
- Embedded Resources: The MHT file contains references to embedded resources, such as images, style sheets, and scripts. These resources are encoded within the file, allowing for a complete representation of the web page.
- Multipart Structure: The MHT file uses a multipart structure, where different parts of the file are separated by boundaries defined in the MIME headers. Each part can be a different type of content, such as text or binary data.
The MIME type for MHT files is message/rfc822, which indicates that the file is a MIME-encoded message. This format allows for the inclusion of multiple types of data within a single file.
How to Convert the File?
Converting MHT files to other formats can be useful for compatibility or to extract specific content. Here are a few methods to convert MHT files:
- Using Web Browsers: Many web browsers, including Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome, can open MHT files. Once opened, you can save the content in different formats such as PDF or HTML through the browser’s “Save As” or “Print” options.
- Online Conversion Tools: Various online tools and converters allow you to convert MHT files to other formats, such as PDF, DOCX, or HTML. These tools can be accessed via web browsers and often provide simple interfaces for conversion.
- Desktop Software: Some desktop applications and utilities support the conversion of MHT files. Tools like Adobe Acrobat or specialized MHT converters can provide more control over the conversion process and output formats.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Convenience: MHT files simplify the process of saving and sharing web content by consolidating all resources into a single file. This makes it easier to store and transfer web pages without worrying about missing resources.
- Portability: MHT files are portable and can be easily shared via email or other means. The encapsulation of all resources ensures that the web page will appear as intended when opened on different devices.
- Archiving: MHT is useful for archiving web content for offline access. It preserves the appearance and functionality of the web page, making it an effective format for long-term storage.
Disadvantages:
- Compatibility Issues: Not all web browsers or applications support MHT files equally. Some may have limited support or require additional plugins to open MHT files properly.
- File Size: MHT files can become quite large, especially for web pages with many embedded resources. This can lead to increased storage requirements and slower performance when opening large MHT files.
- Security Concerns: MHT files can potentially contain malicious content or scripts. Users should be cautious when opening MHT files from untrusted sources to avoid security risks.
How to Open MHT?
Open In Windows
- Microsoft Edge: Microsoft Edge natively supports opening MHT files. Simply double-click the file, and it should open in the browser.
- Internet Explorer: Older versions of Internet Explorer also support MHT files. You can open the file directly by selecting “File” > “Open” in the browser menu.
- Other Applications: Applications like Microsoft Word or Outlook can also open MHT files. You can drag and drop the file into the application or use the “Open” dialog.
Open In Linux
- Web Browsers: Linux users may need to use third-party web browsers or tools to open MHT files. Browsers like Google Chrome or Firefox may require extensions to handle MHT files.
- Conversion Tools: Online converters and desktop utilities can be used to convert MHT files to formats that are more accessible on Linux.
Open In MAC
- Safari: Safari does not natively support MHT files. You may need to use a third-party application or browser extension to open MHT files on macOS.
- Firefox: Mozilla Firefox does not support MHT files directly. However, you can use extensions or plugins to add this functionality.
- Third-Party Applications: Applications like “MHT Viewer” or online conversion tools can help open or convert MHT files on macOS.
