COM (Component Object Model)
Purpose
COM is a platform-independent, distributed, object-oriented system for
creating binary software components that can interact. COM is the
foundation technology for Microsoft's OLE (compound documents) and
ActiveX® (Internet-enabled components) technologies, as well as others.
Where Applicable
COM objects can be created with a variety of programming languages.
Object-oriented languages, such as C++, provide programming
mechanisms that simplify the implementation of COM objects. These
objects can be within a single process, in other processes, even on remote
machines.
Developer Audience
COM is designed primarily for C++ and Microsoft Visual Basic® developers.
Run-time Requirements
Runs on a wide variety of operating systems.
