How To Enable ActiveX on Chrome

Anna Middleton Read more August 2, 2022

ActiveX is a framework that allows different software to communicate and share functionality and information. This technology has significantly improved software, as new possibilities were born with it. But how does it work, and why is it so important?

The best way to explain its functionality is through an example. We’ll use applications that have spell-checking capabilities. The first application that comes to mind is Microsoft Word. But applications like Outlook Express use spell checkers too.

Since there’s a need for the same functions in both cases, programmers came up with this concept that allows them to use the same code for both applications. There is no need to create a spell checker for both applications from scratch.

So, in this case, a spell checker object was created and easily implemented in both of these apps. The same goes for other apps that require spell-checking. Why write the same thing over and over again?

How to Enable ActiveX on Google Chrome

Considering that ActiveX is very useful, why isn’t it already enabled across all browsers? The answer lies in the fact that this technology was created by Microsoft. By default, ActiveX only works on applications that were also made by Microsoft; that includes Internet Explorer, PowerPoint, Excel, Word, etc.

However, you can now enable ActiveX on both Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, even though this wasn’t possible initially. Let’s take a look at what you need to do.

There are two methods that you can use for this. Go through them both and choose the method that’s easier for you to follow.

Enable ActiveX Windows Settings

The first method to enable ActiveX for Chrome can be done right from your computer’s settings. Here’s what to do:

Open the Control Panel on your computer and click the Network & Sharing option. Then, click Internet Options.
Click the Security tab at the top of the window that opens.
Click Custom level…
Check Enable under Run ActiveX controls and plug-ins and Run antimalware software on ActiveX controls.
Click Enable next to Download signed ActiveX controls.
Click OK.

Now you can restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Method 2

In the second method, we will enable ActiveX by adding it as a Chrome extension. First, you’ll have to download and install the extension from the Chrome Web Store.

Add the IE Tab extension by clicking Add to Chrome here.
Click Add Extension.
Sign in and select the version of Internet Explorer you’d like to use.
Now, you can click the Extension icon in Chrome’s upper right corner to select IE Tab.
The IE Tab extension will open and you’re free to now use ActiveX.

After you have completed the last step, restart your browser, and you will be good to go.

Enabling ActiveX on Mozilla Firefox

When it comes to Mozilla Firefox, this process is similar.

Download the ActiveX plug-in for Mozilla here.
Install the plug-in after you’ve downloaded it by clicking on its icon and following instructions.
Open Mozilla and go to the Hamburger icon.
Choose Add-ons.
Select the Plug-ins tab.
You should now be able to see ActiveX listed as a plug-in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to more of your questions about ActiveX.

Does adding ActiveX pose a security threat?

There are possible threats when using ActiveX controls. Check for signed ActiveX options as they tend to be more reputable than those that are unsigned.

Why can’t I use ActiveX in my browser?

Your security settings may block some of the content. Visit the Tools and Security options to choose new security settings.

Can I use ActiveX on a Mac?

Yes. All you need to do is install the IE Tab extension on your Chrome browser.

Comment Your Ideas

That’s all you need to do to enable ActiveX on Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Did these methods help you? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.