.activex File Extension

ActiveX Control

Executable 9 searches

What is a .activex file?

ActiveX controls are small programs, also known as add-ons, that are used on the Internet to provide interactive content for web pages. They are based on Microsoft's Component Object Model (COM) technology and are primarily used in the Windows operating system. ActiveX controls can perform a wide range of tasks, such as displaying animations, playing audio and video, providing interactive forms, and accessing system resources. They are often embedded within web pages and executed by web browsers like Internet Explorer (though support has largely been deprecated in modern browsers due to security concerns). Because ActiveX controls have access to the underlying operating system, they can pose a security risk if they are not properly designed or if they come from untrusted sources. Malicious ActiveX controls can be used to install malware, steal data, or compromise the security of the user's system. Modern web development practices favor alternatives like JavaScript and HTML5 due to their cross-platform compatibility and improved security features.

.activex File

ActiveX Control

Compatible Software Alternatives

Software Compatibility

Windows

  • Internet Explorer (Legacy)
  • Microsoft Visual Studio
  • ActiveX Control Test Container

macOS

No software information available.

Linux

No software information available.

Mobile

No mobile app information available.

Alternative File Formats

Related Categories

Executable Files Archive FilesAudio FilesData Files

Frequently Asked Questions About .activex Files

To open a .activex file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • Internet Explorer (Legacy)
  • Microsoft Visual Studio

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .activex files on different operating systems.

To convert a .activex file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software: Many programs that open .activex files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using Internet Explorer (Legacy).
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .activex files, consider converting to .DLL, .OCX, .JAR for better compatibility.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".activex converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .activex file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .activex file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .activex files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated
  • Be particularly cautious with executable file types
Security Notice: .activex files can execute code on your computer. Only open files from sources you completely trust.

Common issues with .activex files include:

  • Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .activex files
  • Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
  • File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
  • Format variations: Different software may implement the .activex format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .activex file, you might need to:

  • Try opening it with alternative software
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for specific patches or updates for your software

Chat with AI About .activex Files

Hello! I'm your AI assistant. Ask me anything about .activex files and I'll try to help you.

Suggested questions: