Add-Ons and Plug-ins

Add-Ons and Plug-ins

Add-ons and plug-ins are tools that extend and modify the functionality of a browser. Both boost browser performance, but they are fundamentally different from each other.

Plug-in — A plug-in is a complete program, often a third-party software, that is installed on the host computer. The browser can use it for multiple functionalities, and other applications can also use it. For example, Flash and Java are plug-ins. A Flash player is required to play a video in the browser.

Add-on — An add-on is not a complete program. It is used to add only a particular functionality to the browser. In some browsers, an add-on is also referred to as an extension. Adding the functionality of a sound and graphics card is an example of an add-on.

How to Manage Add-ons and Plug-ins

To add an extension (add-on):

• Click the Options button on the top right corner of the browser.
• Select the Add-ons option.
• Click the Extensions Panel option on the left.
• On the right, options to Manage your Extensions will appear.
• You will see a list of enabled, disabled, and recommended extensions.
• Make the desired selections and close the add-ons window.

To add plug-ins:

• Click Plug-ins options on the left side of the browser window.
• Make the desired selections to enable or disable the required plug-ins.

Summary Table

| Feature | Plug-in | Add-on (Extension) |

|---------|---------|-------------------| …