Internet Terminology Defined - What does ActiveX mean ?

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ActiveX (Sometimes referred to as ActiveX Controls) is software from Microsoft that enhances the web browser (As it is Microsoft technology the ActiveX Controls work better in Microsoft Internet Explorer than Netscape Navigator or other browsers).

The browsers are enhanced so that it is possible to view and use other programs in the browser window - this would enable someone to display an excel spreadsheet on the internet or to play a video through Windows Media Player within the web document. It also enables Web Programmers to develop their own programs that can be run in the browser.

When you visit a website that uses ActiveX control the site will automatically download the program to enable the enhancement to take place. (Depending on how your security settings are set you will be asked whether you wish to insall/run the ActiveX controls or not.)

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