In Internet Explorer, go to Manage Add-ons and ensure "Adobe PDF Reader" is set to "Enabled." The Future: Moving Beyond ActiveX

While you can’t download a standalone "Adobe Reader ActiveX" file officially, you can get the verified control by installing the latest from Adobe's official site. Ensure your software is always updated to the latest version to protect yourself from the inherent security vulnerabilities of legacy ActiveX technology.

If a website tells you that you "need an ActiveX control to view this PDF," it is likely an old site. You can usually bypass this by downloading the PDF to your desktop and opening it directly in the Adobe Reader app. Conclusion

It is important to note:

When you "download" or enable this control, you are essentially giving another program the ability to: Open and display PDF files within its own window.

This article breaks down what the Adobe Reader ActiveX control is, where to find verified versions, and why you might want to reconsider how you handle PDFs today. What is the Adobe Reader ActiveX Control?