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Here's a brief explanation of what ActiveX is:

ActiveX is a software module that emerged from Microsoft's Component Object Model (COM) and Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) technologies. In 1996, Microsoft took OLE 2.0 and renamed it ActiveX. While the primary role of OLE is to manage documents that utilize multi-media, it also is capable of transferring data between applications. Embedding information is common practice for web designers and these components are frequently found on Internet sites especially those rich in multi-media content. Web pages utilizing ActiveX function in a similar fashion to server-based applications and behave like standard executable programs. Conceptually, they are like Java applets and share similar implementation characteristics.

ActiveX components can easily blend in and can offer a variety of functionality to programs. They can be used by several applications on a computer or shared on a network. While these components can be utilized for common operating tasks by Macintosh and Microsoft systems, they are most often downloaded and used by web pages for animation displays, for programmatic tasks, or to augment User Interface functions so as to include items such as spreadsheets, toolbars and similar components.

With today's standards and common practices, most web browser configurations notify and prompt the user prior to the download of an ActiveX control. This can be a difficult choice if there is no guarantee or indication as to the function of the component and the requirement of the web page. Once the user accepts and the component is downloaded, considerable latitude is achieved - the ActiveX control now has the same privileges as the user. This poses security risks that including reading from, and writing to, the registry; manipulation of the user's local file system; and alteration of security rights.

Many people incorrectly assume that all of ActiveX is related to ActiveX controls. "ActiveX" refers to the objects that can be created and manipulated using Automation. An ActiveX control is a special type of ActiveX object that is designed to be used similar to a plugin. The most common use of ActiveX controls is to build "plugins" for Internet Explorer, each having its own unique purpose and function as designed by its author.

The ActiveX "plug-ins" for Internet Explorer are referred to in IE as add-ons. Add-ons are programs that extend the capibilities of your Web browser. They may be classified as an ActiveX Control, a Browser Extension, Browser Helper Object, or even a Toolbar. Some add-ons can interfere with the operation of your browser. You can disable, enable, or update the add-ons on your computer. Disabling an add-on might prevent some Web pages from working. You can view and manage the add-ons currently on your computer by selecting Tools > Manage Add-ons from your IE menu bar at the top of the page.

Hope this answers your question.
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Repa

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