The latest version of Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer browser, made available for free download Monday, is drawing protests because it doesn't support two rival products commonly used on Web sites. Internet Explorer 6.0 will not automatically support the embattled Java programming language or Netscape-style ``plug-ins,'' though users and developers will have tools to make the browser compatible with those products. Microsoft decided to dropped support for the plug-ins - additional software that lets users play music, watch videos or perform other tasks - in favor of Microsoft technology called ActiveX. Microsoft spokesman Jim Cullinan said the move was for increased security.
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