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Fix: Internet Explorer Blocked Website from Installing ActiveX
Have you considered using a more up to date browser?
6 min. read
Updated onJuly 11, 2024
updated onJuly 11, 2024
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If you still use the ancient Microsoft web browser and see popups likeInternet Explorer blocked this website from installing an ActiveX control, this article is for you. Here, you will find relevant information and an effective solution.
ActiveX is an increasingly antiquated software framework that is still utilized withinInternet Explorerand other Microsoft applications.
It enables some websites to display interactive content, such as toolbars and games. However, in recent years, this technology has been outdated. Even if you depend on it, you may face many problems likeIE ActiveX interface marshaling library won’t openor anything else.
In addition, ActiveX controls can also assist malware in installing unwanted software on Windows.
Consequently, IE automatically blocks ActiveX controls installation. That will happen for users who have enabledtheActiveX Filteringsetting.
Then, some content might be missing from a page. When filtering isn’t enabled, users might still see prompts at the top ofIErequesting permission to install an ActiveX control.
Quick Tip:
You’ve seen how tricky Internet Explorer’s ActiveX Filtering setting really is, and deselecting it or turning it off for specific websites might not necessarily sound like music to your years.
Instead of wasting valuable time on fixing ActiveX-related errors, install Opera One. The first thing to point out is that it never blocks ActiveX controls installation.
Opera One
Does IE 11 support ActiveX?
Yes. Internet Explorer 11 supports ActiveX. Even though there are both pros and cons, this is still supported by the IE11. However, the new Microsoft Edge that has replaced the IE on modern Windows doesn’t support ActiveX.
Where are ActiveX controls stored in windows 10
Not only on Windows 10 but also on any Windows versions, the ActiveX control files are stored in the following location of the system drive:
C:WindowsDownloaded Program Files
How do I run ActiveX on Windows 11?
Windows 11 has not come with Internet Explorer. Instead, it has Microsoft Edge as the one and only default web browser. Fortunately, you can enable IE mode here to access websites and web applications that require IE features to function properly.
The IE mode should automatically run ActiveX without any issue. Here are the steps to enable IE mode on Edge:
How can I stop Windows 10/11 blocking ActiveX install for IE?
1. Turn Off ActiveX Filtering for All Websites
2. Turn Off ActiveX Filtering for a Specific Website
When ActiveX filtering is on, a blue circle, or stop icon, appears on the right side ofInternet Explorer’sURL bar.
Users can click on that to open a dialog box window that states,Some content is filtered on this site.
Then users can click theTurn Off ActiveX Filteringbutton on that dialog box to enable ActiveX controls for a specific website. However, the filter will still block ActiveX controls on other pages.
3. Add Pages to Trusted Sites
Windows might also block ActiveX controls from installing when the publisher cannot be verified.
Then, an error message will pop up stating thatWindows has blocked this software because it can’t verify the publisher.
Then it might be a good idea not to install ActiveX. Nevertheless, users can still deselect aRequire server verificationoption to install ActiveX even when Windows can’t verify the publisher.
4. Turn Off ActiveX Control Prompts
So, that’s howInternet Explorerusers can lift ActiveX control blocks to remove content filtering from pages.
For some users, a warning message likeFailed to load popup blocker assistant ActiveX Controlmay appear after doing the above changes. Ignore it. But, if you don’t want to get this warning,Automatic prompting for ActiveX controls.
5. Enable Turn off blocking of outdated ActiveX controls for Internet Explorer
However, do it only when you need this. It is because enabling this option may make you vulnerable to various malware and online threats. It is always recommended to leave it configured or disabled.
Download signed ActiveX controls grayed out
When you try to enable or disable ActiveX control on Internet Options, you may find that the option Download signed ActiveX controls cannot be enabled or disabled because the option is grayed out. If it happens to you, it means you lack privileges to make some changes on the IE.
To get rid of it, you need to contact the system administrator. However, if you are the admin of the computer, it means you have made some changes in the registry or group policy that should be restored to the previous state. A system restore can help you to achieve it if you have no clue.
These are the ways to fix Internet Explorer blocked this website from installing an ActiveX Control. Remember that ActiveX can compromise your system with unwanted software and content. Apply the fixes only when you need ActiveX badly.
If you have any opinion or know a better solution, feel free to let us know in the comment box.
More about the topics:Internet Explorer Issues
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
