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You have probably heard those in the computer world talking about plugins. So just what is a plugin and what are they used for?
To put it simply a plugin adds something specific to a particular software application. A plugin will add to a particular software application by allowing you to customize it more to your personal needs.
The purposes for making a plugin available for users to download can vary. The purposes for a plugin can range from extending an application to enabling the addition of new and specialized features to a specific piece of software to allowing updates to keep the software running smoothly. Software applications on your computer that may require the downloading and installing of plugins include email, media players, and web browsers.
Plugins can be created through a number of different frameworks. In this instance, a framework is referring to the type of programming language used to build the plugin. Popular languages in which people write plugin frameworks include C++, Java, Delphi, PHP, Python, and .NET. Popular C++ frameworks include Boost Extension and Google Native Client, which uses sandbox technology. Sandbox technology is designed to test the security of untested code or untrusted sources. This is especially useful when applied to plugins as it makes sure they are safe before installing onto a computer.
Although plugins are a necessary addition for many different software programs it is always best to ensure that the plugins come from a secure place. If you can, make sure they have been designed by the software designers themselves, or another organization or designer who is authorized by the original software developers.
