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Repairing ActiveX Errors

ActiveX is a technology developed by Microsoft that combines two different processes that are used to ease and develop software compatibility and interoperability. Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) focuses on communication between software programs and Component Object Model (COM) focuses on implementation.

Microsoft combined the two technologies in 1996 and refitted them into ActiveX that allows the implementation of one software program by another through dispatch interfaces that can essentially allow software programs to access and gain control of each other through program specific code. ActiveX controls are prolific and facilitate important technologies used to engage the internet and multiple related functions including dialogue boxes, the Internet Explorer browser and even the command button.

Download this free scanner to scan your Windows Registry for problems that may lead to system errors and ActiveX problems.

One potential problem created by ActiveX stems from the facilitation of user-friendly interaction with software applications over the internet. Like Java Applet, ActiveX allows users to interact with and administer applications with simple code. As a result, ActiveX creates the potential for hackers to easily access and implement applications. However, unlike Java Applet, ActiveX controls can only be run on Microsoft web browser and Microsoft operating systems.

ActiveX Controls refer to reusable components that trigger and implement the interfaces that initiate communication between software programs and allow programmers to create applications that are compatible with other programs. Rather than entire programs, ActiveX controls are small bits of code, or information, that can be accessed and implemented by different software.

ActiveX implements and runs little pieces of code that install small programs to computer systems that are downloadable such as calculators or data sheets. Since these programs run code and are executable they can render your system vulnerable to hackers and unwanted code. In the worst case scenario your computer downloads an application that contains a malicious code that can wipe your hard drive or run a program that makes your system inoperable. Malware, computer viruses and spyware are often packaged and distributed as ActiveX.

You can protect your system from the vulnerabilities of ActiveX by installing security settings that monitor and limit the ways that your computer is able to interact with ActiveX programs through your Web browser. You should ensure that your system is configured to prevent unauthorized ActiveX access and downloads. There is also a specific commercial ActiveX Control Cleanup Tool available from Symantec that will scan your system and guide you through getting rid of unwanted applications.

Download this free registry scanner and find out just how clogged your Windows registry really is.