Applet is a program that can be embedded in any HTML document. It is used to create programs that any user can run by simply loading a web page from their browser.
We explain in detail the definition of Applet, explain if they are currently working and answer the question of whether they are necessary to digitally sign.
Applet definition
Applet is a program that can be embedded in an HTML document (Web page). When a browser loads a Web page containing an applet, the applet is downloaded to the Web browser and starts running, which allows us to create programs that any user can run. One of the requirements for the applet to work is to have Java installed and enabled through the web browser.
Do they currently work?
It depends on the browser:
In Internet Explorer 11, yes. Although it requires some configuration:
- Click on Tools, then Internet Options.
- Select the Security tab and click on the Custom Level button
- Look for Java Applet Automation
- Select the Enable radio button
- Click OK to save your preferences
In Microsoft Edge, no.
In Google Chrome, no (version 42 and later). As of version 42 (April 2015), Chrome has disabled the standard method by which browsers support plugins. More information.
In Firefox, no. Firefox no longer provides support for NPAPI (technology needed for Java applets) As of September 2018, Firefox stopped offering a version that supported NPAPI, the technology needed to run Java applets.
In Safari, no. From version 12 onwards, Safari does not support the Java plugin.
Do I need Applet to sign electronically?
With Viafirma, no, since we have different alternatives to sign digitally.