What is a plugin? and are they safe to download?

Question

i want to watch some videos online but its saying i need to download plugins? what are these and can they harm my computer?

Answer 1

A plugin is a program that works in conjunction with another program.  In this case your browser.   Some of the most popular plugins are flash, java, quicktime.  The majority of plugins are safe to use.  When you get the message you need to download a plug in, look at the name of the plugin, google it.  In general I would say that the plugins its trying to install are fine.

Answer 2

Always thought"plug in play" meant accessory attached to computer that would verify its validity, fit it in automatically, and say "done-use it". But got to be almost slang "plug-in". Now  have to download a stranger's software package to use its products. What would you do if I told you I had a neat program you'd love to use to watch videos? Do you know me or what I might have included in my program?  I think Jamie has a handle on it...make sure it's clean before you expose your system to it. Long way of saying, be careful of the Trojan Horse.

Answer 3

No, there perfectly safe.