How to Fix ActiveX Errors

Microsoft’s ActiveX technology usually involves plug-ins which are extensions that add functionality to the Internet Explorer Web browser. When the ActiveX plug-in is well written by a reputable provider, the Web browsing experience is enhanced. For example, ActiveX controls allow for multimedia playback, PDF document viewing, and other features that the browser would otherwise be incapable of. On the other hand, poorly written ActiveX controls can cause ActiveX errors. Even worse, hackers and malware makers have exploited ActiveX technology to carry out their devious deeds.

The most common types of ActiveX errors are related to ActiveX browser settings, ActiveX conflicts, poorly written ActiveX controls, and malicious ActiveX controls. If your computer is generating ActiveX errors, you must first identify the type of ActiveX error you are receiving: ActiveX browser issue, ActiveX conflict, or malware. Once you know the general nature of the ActiveX error, you can take matters into your own hands and fix it.

ActiveX Browser Settings

Because of malicious ActiveX controls, Internet Explorer’s security settings are generally set to provide a level of protection against them. However, the settings may be set either too high or too low. If the settings are set too high, your browser may be restricted from carrying out legitimate functions such as downloading bank statements from your bank. If they are set too low, malicious scripts could run without your knowledge. Finding the right balance is key in both solving and preventing ActiveX errors.

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Launch your Web browser and click Tools > Internet Options. Click the Security tab, highlight the Internet globe, and click on Custom Level. Find the ActiveX Controls and Plug-ins category and make sure that both “Script Active X controls marked safe for scripting” and “Run ActiveX controls and plug-ins” are marked “enabled.” All other ActiveX options should be marked “prompt.”

ActiveX Conflicts

Occasionally, an ActiveX control will cause conflicts with other programs or fail to live up to expectations. Internet Explorer comes with an Add-on manager where you can view, manage, and disable installed ActiveX controls. Go to Tools > Manage Add-ons. Click Toolbars and Extensions and find the troublesome control in the list. Once highlighted, you can view detailed information about the ActiveX control as well as disable it.

If your Internet Explorer Web browser is malfunctioning, it could be the result of an ActiveX error. Another technique used to pinpoint the offending ActiveX control is to run Internet Explorer without Add-ons and then re-enable the ActiveX controls one-by-one until the problem reappears. Once the conflicting control is identified, you can then disable it using the Manage Add-ons tool. To run Internet Explorer without add-ons, go to Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Internet Explorer (No Add-ons).

ActiveX Malware

Malicious ActiveX controls are best prevented by setting the Web browser appropriately and using common sense when prompted to install questionable controls. A good computer security program provides a second layer of defense, especially if real-time blocking and regular scans are enabled.

Malicious ActiveX controls may also create registry entries that cause additional computer errors. These registry changes are best handled by registry cleaning utilities as manual registry cleaning is time consuming, challenging, and highly risky.

ActiveX controls can be either extremely useful or extremely damaging. Use care when accepting ActiveX controls and only accept them from trusted sites. In short, prevention is the best policy.

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