HTM vs. HTML: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 1, 2024
HTM and HTML are file extensions for HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) documents; HTM is used for compatibility with older file systems limited to three-letter extensions, while HTML is more commonly used.
Key Differences
HTM is a file extension for web pages written in HTML (Hypertext Markup Language). It is an abbreviation of HTML, missing the last letter, and was primarily used in the early days of the internet. HTML, on the other hand, stands for Hypertext Markup Language and is the standard file extension for documents containing HTML code. HTML files are used to create and structure sections, paragraphs, headings, links, and blockquotes for web pages and applications.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 01, 2024
The reason for the existence of two file extensions lies in historical limitations of operating systems. Older versions of Windows, notably those pre-dating Windows 95, used a 8.3 filename convention, limiting file extensions to three characters, hence "HTM". Modern operating systems, including later versions of Windows and Unix-based systems, do not have this limitation, allowing the use of the full "HTML" extension. Both "HTM" and "HTML" files function in the same way and are virtually identical in use and function.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 01, 2024
In practice, there is no difference between an HTM file and an HTML file in terms of how web browsers interpret and display them. Both file types are text files containing the markup language used to structure and format web pages. The choice between using .htm or .html is often down to personal preference, though .html is more widely recognized and used, reflecting the full name of the markup language.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 01, 2024
When it comes to web development and design, both HTM and HTML files can be edited using the same tools and software. Common text editors, HTML editors, and integrated development environments (IDEs) can open, edit, and save files with either extension. The decision to use one extension over the other does not impact the capabilities or the features of the HTML code contained within the file.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 01, 2024
In summary, the difference between HTM and HTML is largely historical and based on past technical limitations. Today, HTML is the more commonly used and recognized extension, but both serve the same purpose and are treated the same by web browsers and development tools.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 01, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Full Form
Abbreviation of HTML (missing last letter)
Hypertext Markup Language
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Feb 01, 2024
Historical Usage
Used due to older 3-character extension limits
Standard extension without limitations
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Feb 01, 2024
Compatibility
Compatible with older Windows systems
Compatible with modern operating systems
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Feb 01, 2024
Functionality
Same as HTML, structures web pages
Same as HTM, structures web pages
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Feb 01, 2024
Current Usage
Less common, but still supported
More widely recognized and used
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Feb 01, 2024
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HTM and HTML Definitions
HTM
HTM files can be opened and edited with any standard text or HTML editor.
I opened the .htm file in my text editor to update the text.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTML
HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language, forming the backbone of web content.
Learning HTML is essential for web development.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTM
HTM serves the same function as HTML in web development and design.
The web designer provided the updated page in .htm format.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTML
HTML files end with a .html extension and contain text-based coding for web design.
The main page of the site is named index.html.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTM
HTM files contain Hypertext Markup Language code for structuring web content.
He edited the htm file to change the website's layout.
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Jan 17, 2024
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HTML
HTML is a markup language used for creating and structuring web pages and applications.
She wrote the entire website using HTML.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTM
HTM is an abbreviation of HTML, used historically due to system limitations.
Older servers sometimes require web files to be in .htm format.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTML
HTML documents structure and format content on the World Wide Web.
He updated the HTML document to add new sections to the page.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTM
HTM is a file extension for HTML documents, often used for web page files.
The website's homepage is saved as index.htm.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTML
HTML is widely used and recognized as the standard format for web pages.
The client requested all web pages be delivered in HTML format.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTML
A markup language used to structure text and multimedia documents and to set up hypertext links between documents, used extensively on the World Wide Web.
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Jan 17, 2024
HTML
A set of tags and rules (conforming to SGML) for using them in developing hypertext documents
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Jan 17, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can browsers read both HTM and HTML files?
Yes, web browsers can interpret and display both HTM and HTML files equally.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 01, 2024
Is there a difference between HTM and HTML?
No significant difference; HTM is just a shorter version of the HTML file extension, often used in older or Windows-based systems.
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Feb 01, 2024
Why do some files have an HTM extension?
The HTM extension is typically used due to older Windows systems restricting file extensions to three letters.
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Feb 01, 2024
What is HTML?
HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, is the standard language for creating web pages and web applications.
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Feb 01, 2024
Is HTML important for web development?
Absolutely, HTML is the foundation of all web pages and a cornerstone of web development.
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Feb 01, 2024
What version of HTML is currently used?
As of my last update, HTML5 is the latest standard.
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Feb 01, 2024
Are HTM files outdated?
Not necessarily outdated, but HTML is more widely recognized and used.
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Feb 01, 2024
Do HTM and HTML files function differently?
No, they function the same way and are both used to structure web content.
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Feb 01, 2024
Are HTM files compatible with all operating systems?
Yes, HTM files can be opened and read on any operating system with a web browser.
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Feb 01, 2024
What does HTM stand for?
HTM stands for Hypertext Markup Language, often used interchangeably with HTML.
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Feb 01, 2024
Can I convert HTM to HTML?
Yes, simply renaming the file extension from .htm to .html will convert it.
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Feb 01, 2024
How do I open an HTM or HTML file?
You can open them with any web browser, like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
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Feb 01, 2024
Is knowledge of HTML necessary for creating websites?
Yes, understanding HTML is fundamental for website creation and design.
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Feb 01, 2024
Are there any security concerns with HTM or HTML?
While the files themselves are not harmful, embedded scripts in HTML can pose security risks if not properly managed.
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Feb 01, 2024
Why is HTML more common than HTM?
HTML became more standard as file system limitations expanded, allowing longer extensions.
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Feb 01, 2024
Is HTML a programming language?
No, it's a markup language used to structure content on the web.
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Feb 01, 2024
How do HTM and HTML work with other web technologies?
They work alongside technologies like CSS for styling and JavaScript for interactivity.
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Feb 01, 2024
Can HTM and HTML support multimedia content?
Both can support multimedia content like images, videos, and audio with appropriate tags.
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Feb 01, 2024
Can HTM and HTML contain JavaScript and CSS?
Yes, both can include JavaScript and CSS to enhance functionality and styling.
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Feb 01, 2024
Can HTM and HTML be edited with standard text editors?
Yes, both can be edited with any text editor, such as Notepad or Sublime Text.
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Feb 01, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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