What are COM and DCOM?
“The Component Object Model (COM) is a software architecture that allows applications to be built from binary software components. COM is the underlying architecture that forms the foundation for higher-level software services, like those provided by OLE. OLE services span various aspects of commonly needed system functionality, including compound documents, custom controls, inter-application scripting, data transfer, and other software interactions. The Distributed Component Object Model (DCOM) is a protocol that enables software components to communicate directly over a network in a reliable, secure, and efficient manner. Previously called “Network OLE,” DCOM is designed for use across multiple network transports, including Internet protocols such as HTTP. DCOM is based on The Open Group’s DCE RPC specification and will work with both Java applets and ActiveX components through its use of the Component Object Model (COM). For example, a developer could use Java to build a Web browser
