What is ActiveX?

ActiveX is Microsoft Window’s framework for how sharing information between multiple applications works. Think of ActiveX objects as mini “add-ons” that work with multiple programs within your PC or your Internet browser to give your computing experience a little extra “oomph.”

ActiveX controls create a lot of versatility for end users on PCs. Programmers and developers utilize ActiveX to implement sound, Java applets, and animations into web pages to make them more interactive. Objects can be also used as tools for software development or productivity functions. For example Microsoft Word’s spell checker can also be used in Outlook Express or any other number of programs with the right interface, this is the result of ActiveX. Word “shares” its spell checker with Outlook so those emails to your boss don’t get sent with mangled grammar.

Microsoft Vista

Vista is Microsoft Window’s newest operating system for PCs. The main difference of Vista over the previous Window’s XP OS is the user interface, which was designed to enhance the usability and speed of your PC.

According to Microsoft’s Web site Vista’s key features include:

• An Ease of Access Center

• Speech recognition

• Screen magnifier

• A narrator that converts text into speech

• A visual, on-screen keyboard

Vista and ActiveX

Vista and ActiveX work together to provide a complete, interactive experience for end users. When your PC displays an error like “ActiveX is not enabled” you are most likely missing important functions in the program or web page you are accessing. These errors could be the result of either your PC’s settings or you could be missing a specific control that is necessary for that particular function to perform.

How do I reset my ActiveX controls?

By resetting the ActiveX settings on your PC, you can return your PC to a list of pre-approved ActiveX controls. You can manually reset your PC’s ActiveX controls by following Microsoft’s instructions.

1. Open Internet Explorer by clicking on your Start button, and then clicking Internet Explorer.


2. In Internet Explorer, click the Tools button, and then click on Internet Options.


3. Click the Advanced tab, and then click Reset.


4. Check the “Delete personal settings” check box if you would like to remove browsing history, search providers, Accelerators, home pages etc.


5. In the “Reset Internet Explorer Setting” dialog box, click Reset.


6. When Internet Explorer finishes applying the default settings, click Close, and then OK.


7. Close Internet Explorer. Your changes will take effect the next time you open Internet Explorer.

Downloading New ActiveX Controls

Some web sites that you visit may require you to install ActiveX controls to access all of the content that is available. When this happens, Internet Explore will open a message window asking you if you want to install an ActiveX control. Microsoft warns to always use precautions even when downloading signed ActiveX controls. Make sure you do your research on where the download is coming from because ActiveX can be corrupted or misused to prevent your PC from working correctly, collect personal information about you and your online browsing habits without your consent or knowledge, or allow annoying pop-up ads. It can be used as a “trojan horse” for malware and spyware.

Where can I download it?

A valid web site should explain what the control is for and provide details. Only install controls if you trust the web site offering the download. There are hundreds of ActiveX downloads available and the best way to ensure that you are downloading a safe version is by going straight to the source.

Are you trying to download the ActiveX control for a specific program like Adobe or DivX Web Player? If so, go to the Adobe or DivX web site and download the control directly from there.