Definition of Active X Controls
ActiveX controls are small programs deployed on the Internet that enhance the browsing experience, allowing such things as animation and updating to take place. In fact, some websites explicitly require ActiveX controls in order for certain tasks to be performed.
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The ActiveX Framework
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Introduced in 1996, The ActiveX Framework defines reusable software components known as controls to perform a set of functions in the Windows environment independent of programming language. By combining any of these components, a software application can be used to provide functionality as needed.
ActiveX Controls vs. Java Applets
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Similar in some sense to Java applets, ActiveX controls differ in that they run only on Microsoft Internet Explorer web browsers and on Windows operating systems. ActiveX controls also have a much higher control level than Java applets, making them more powerful.
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Activating ActiveX Controls
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A number of techniques are used to embed and control Internet Explorer browser activity using ActiveX. On the other hand, a free and easy-to-use tool called ActiveX Patch Converter can be downloaded and used to update websites using embedded content.
OLE Containers
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To provide full functionality, ActiveX controls should be used within Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) control containers.
Security Considerations
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ActiveX controls are especially vulnerable to attack because any web-based application running on Internet Explorer can use the control class identifier to launch a malicious attack.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Michel Telendro
