Chapter 8 -- Introducing the Component Object Model

Chapter 8

About This Chapter

When developing with Microsoft Visual C++, a thorough understanding of the Component Object Model (COM) will enable you to simplify the construction of applications by utilizing reusable software components. The use of reusable components speeds development and results in more reliable applications.

This chapter provides a conceptual introduction to COM and discusses ActiveX controls, which are self-registering COM components designed to be placed in an ActiveX control container such as an application dialog box or a Web page. This chapter provides the necessary background for Chapters 9, 10, and 11 which deal with the practical implementation of COM components.

Before You Begin

Before you start this chapter, you should have read Chapters 2 through 7, and completed the exercises in the text.