Which of the following is a Microsoft technology for communication among software components distributed
across networked computers?
A.
DDE
B.
OLE
C.
ODBC
D.
DCOM
Explanation:
Component Object Model (COM) is a model that allows for interprocess communication within one application
or between applications on the same computer system. The model was created by Microsoft and outlines
standardized APIs, component naming schemes, and communication standards. So if I am a developer and I
want my application to be able to interact with the Windows operating system and the different applications
developed for this platform, I will follow the COM outlined standards.
Distributed Component Object Model (DCOM) supports the same model for component interaction, and also
supports distributed interprocess communication (IPC). COM enables applications to use components on the
same systems, while DCOM enables applications to access objects that reside in different parts of a network.
So this is how the client/server-based activities are carried out by COM-based operating systems and/or
applications.
Incorrect Answers:
A: Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) allows information to be shared or communicated between programs on one
computer, not across networked computers.
B: Object linking and embedding (OLE) provides a way for objects to be shared on a local personal computer
and to use COM as their foundation. OLE enables objects—such as graphics, clipart, and spreadsheets—to be
embedded into documents. This is not what is described in the question.
C: Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) is an API that allows an application to communicate with a database,
either locally or remotely. This is not what is described in the question.Harris, Shon, All In One CISSP Exam Guide, 6th Edition, McGraw-Hill, New York, 2013, pp. 1146, 1176