ActiveX is a technology developed by Microsoft that allows for the integration of interactive content into web pages and desktop applications. It is a collection of technologies and tools that enable developers to create custom software components, called "controls," and use them in other applications. These controls can provide various functionalities such as user interface elements, multimedia players, database access, and more.
Typical functions of software in the "ActiveX" domain are:
User interface controls: ActiveX enables the creation of custom controls for user interfaces that can be integrated into other applications.
Multimedia support: With ActiveX, multimedia players and controls can be created to display and play audio, video, and graphic files in web pages and applications.
Database integration: ActiveX allows access to databases and integration of database functionalities into applications, including data querying, editing, and updating.
Graphics and drawing tools: ActiveX provides tools for creating and editing graphics and drawings that can be used in applications.
Communication and network functionality: ActiveX supports communication over networks and the internet, as well as integration of network protocols into applications.
Security features: ActiveX provides security mechanisms such as digital signatures and certificates to ensure the integrity and authenticity of controls and improve the security of the application environment.
Interoperability: ActiveX enables interoperability between different applications and platforms by providing a common interface for exchanging data and functionalities.