A Plug-In is a group of components of a specific software program that adds capabilities to an application. They allow users to customize how a specific application can be used. The most common use for plug-ins is with a web browser, where they are used to perform virus scans, display types of files, and play music or video files. Quick Time and Adobe Flash Player are among the most popular plug-in programs.
Most applications use plug-ins because it allows outside developers to create extras which can help to enhance the use and functionality of the application. Plug-ins also help to support the addition of new features with simplicity and ease. Specific applications that use plug-ins include Adobe Photoshop which utilizes images and all types of file formats, winamp, which is a commonly used media player that functions with Windows Operating Systems, Microsoft Office, which uses plug-ins to allow users to customize every program and feature to get the best results, and most web browsing software, which requires plug-ins in order to play streaming video and other media files on individual websites. When a site features content that requires a plug-in, the information encrypted on the page is handled by the plug-in software. Some good examples of these are the free media players available today like Handbrake, Xvid and Virtual Dub which allows the user to view and format any form of media and on any operating system. They are useful and valuable tools allowing users to download and play music and videos on their computers even if the format of the media is not compatible with their system.
A similar component to customizing software is found in extensions, which are somewhat different than plug-ins. Plug-ins usually have fewer capabilities than extensions. Extensions are made from a set of additional modules and, after installation, they become part of the browser software. When using Internet Explorer, an example of an extension is the toolbar, and an example of a plug-in is a media player embedded onto the page. Both extensions and plug-ins help computer users to be able to utilize more features on enhanced websites, and these software programs allow for interactive content to be enjoyed and customization options for users.