What Does ActiveX Mean?
ActiveX is a framework for defining reusable software components (also known as ActiveX controls) in a programming-language independent way. Because ActiveX encapsulates specific functionality as ActiveX controls, it can be seamlessly incorporated into many software applications. The Internet Explorer Web browser allows for ActiveX controls to be embedded into Web pages. ActiveX controls officially run only in the Internet Explorer browser running on a Windows operating system.
Techopedia Explains ActiveX
On the Internet, ActiveX controls have extended the capability to introduce lively and elegant content, multimedia effects, interactive features to Web pages and software applications. The extension provided by the ActiveX technology is limitless – ActiveX controls have full access to the entire PC and all services of the Windows operating system. With this power comes a responsibility to provide security to the user. Microsoft has countered the potential risk of malware by developing a registration system that allows the browser to identify and authenticate an ActiveX control before downloading it. In addition, it is recommended that users set the default browser configuration such that they are prompted to approve any request for the download and execution of ActiveX controls.
