ActiveX controls are tools that allow applications to be distributed online using web browsers. These can be used for customized applications that do data gathering and animation display. This is a guide on ActiveX controls install.

Before you do the ActiveX controls install, you first need to prepare this. It comes in an installer package that has the file type '.msi'. Remember that this is different from the .cab file that stands for Internet Explorer cabinet. In order for you to find the ActiveX controls within the Active Directory, you will have to arrange it so that it registers with the .msi file rather than automatically.

Once you have prepared the controls, the next step to doing the ActiveX controls install is to publish it. Once you have created the .msi format, you have to inform the Active Directory about the existence of the control. It should become a published control that is found in the appropriate organizational unit. Once you have successfully published the control, it should be displayed in the Add/Remove programs that are available to all users.

Once the control has been prepared and you have verified that this appears in the Add/Remove programs box, you have to create a Windows 2000 registry that will make Internet Explorer go on the Active Directory to try and find the control. Once the registry changes have been completed, the browser asks the administrator for permission to conduct ActiveX controls install from the directory.

Remember that when you have ActiveX controls installed on your system, you have to see to it that your security is not compromised. These are add-ons that you can find online so there is a need for you to take care against misuse of the program. These are helpful with the installation of security updates which makes it ironic that they can be security risks themselves.

Your ActiveX controls install can lead to a malfunctioning of your computer. There is also a chance that it can compile your browser habits and collect personal details without neither your knowledge nor permission. Even the ActiveX controls that are considered to be 'good' can pave the way for 'bad' websites to apply them to malicious uses.

Since you know how risky these are, the ActiveX controls install should only be done if you are aware about this website that you are getting the control from. You also have to find out which publisher came up with the control.