Plug-ins are small programs that integrate with Internet Explorer to provide access to particular file types right inside Internet Explorer. For example, Adobe Acrobat has a plug-in that lets you read PDF files in Internet Explorer. Another type of common plug-in is the Macromedia Flash plug-in. This plug-in lets you view animations and dynamic content, like games, on the Web. Windows Media Player also has a pre built-in plug-in that lets you experience video or audio inside Internet Explorer.

 

Be cautious when Internet Explorer detects a possible bad plug-in because these too can disguise viruses and spyware. Internet Explorer will always alert you when it finds a possible security threat, so when in doubt, don't visit that particular Web site unless you are sure that the content contained in the Web site is safe.