Understand .JSON Files

All you need to confidently work with the application/json format.

application

.json

Packaged application or binary data that normally ships with software.

MIME TYPE

application/json

Best for

Sharing compiled tools, archives, installers, or proprietary data dumps.

Opens with

Software that created it, Archive utilities, Developer SDKs

Character set

UTF-8

Compressible

Usually

Alternate extensions

.map

Registered by

iana

Make the format work for you

Perfect when you need teammates to grab the exact asset from your release pipeline without second-guessing the format.

Serve with the declared MIME type so browsers treat downloads safely and avoid executing unknown binaries automatically.
Only open files from trusted sources. Executables and archives can contain install scripts or payloads.
Add a short README alongside the file so collaborators know when to use it and how to preview it.

Quick operational checklist

Share confidently. Include sample content and note the expected software version so reviewers open it correctly.
Stay searchable. Tag uploads with application/json or .json in your knowledge base so teammates find the right asset fast.
Plan conversions. If recipients cannot open .json, export a lightweight PDF or screenshot alternative for quick review.

Explore neighbours to decide whether .json is the best hand-off or if a sibling suits your workflow better.