What Are Helper Applications?

If you've been surfing the web for awhile, you have probably seen references to helper applications. Helper applications are software programs that "help out" your web browser when it comes to a file it doesn't understand. Unlike plug-ins, however, helper applications are full-fledged programs that can be used independently of a web browser. For example, let's say you downloaded a Microsoft Word document. Your web browser can't open the document, so it hands it off to Microsoft Word to help out.

As our Word example suggests, virtually any stand-alone program can be a helper application. Lately however, the distinction between helper applications and plug-ins has started to blur. Some programs, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, are designed to work as both a browser plug-in and as an independent application.

Confused? If so, you're not the only one. The development of web-based tools has exploded in recent years. As developers continue to create innovative applications for the Internet, we'll continue to see a blurring of distinctions between plug-ins, ActiveX controls, and helper applications. Understanding the differences between them is good to know, but more important is understanding how to use these tools enhance your Web experiences.

The Master Internet Volunteer Program was developed by the University of Minnesota Extension Service and was adapted for use in North Dakota with permission. Copyright  © 2000  North Dakota State University. All rights reserved.

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