Active content in Microsoft Internet Explorer
This information is extrapolated from Microsoft Internet Explorer Help files.
What is active content and why does Internet Explorer restrict it?
Active content is content that relies on either ActiveX controls or computer code called a script to work properly. Examples include stock tickers, video, and animated content on Web pages.
These programs can, however, malfunction or give you content you don’t want. In some cases, these programs can be used to collect information from your computer in ways you might not approve of, possibly damage data on your computer, install software on your computer without your consent, or allow someone else to control your computer remotely. Given these risks, you should only install these programs if you completely trust the publisher.
If a Web page you visit tries to display active content, you will see the message below (click the message for more information).
"To help protect your security, Internet Explorer has restricted this file from showing active content that could access your computer. Click here for options..."
This message appears when a Web page open on your computer tries to run a script or ActiveX control. Internet Explorer blocks the active content portion of the page but allows the rest of the Web page to open so you can see how it functions without the script or ActiveX control. Often, you will be able to view or use the Web page without using the active content. Because active content is a potential hazard to your computer, you should be certain that you trust the publisher of a script or ActiveX control before you decide to give it access to your computer.
If you are certain that you want to allow the page to run scripts and ActiveX controls on your computer, follow the steps below:
- Click the Information Bar.
- Click Allow blocked content.
- Click Related Topics for information about how to decide if you should trust a Web site or publisher.
Pop-up Blocker in Microsoft Internet Explorer
This information is extrapolated from Microsoft Internet Explorer Help files.
Internet Explorer allows you to prevent most pop-up windows from appearing over pages you want to view while you are using the Internet.
The default settings for the pop-up blocker allow you to see pop-ups that are opened when you click a link or button on a Web site. There might be some Web sites that you visit on a regular basis, and you want to see the pop-ups displayed by those sites. Just follow the steps below:
- Open Internet Explorer.
- On the Tools menu, point to Pop-up Blocker, and then click Pop-up Blocker Settings.
- In the Address of Web site to allow box, type the address (or URL) of the Web site you want to see pop-ups from, and then click Add.