Net Terms Plug-ins and Helper Applications A great feature of Netscape Navigator and other web browsers is that they allow users to download and install supplementary programs to enhance the browser's ability to handle certain types of files. These supplementary programs fall into two categories: plug-ins and Helper applications. Helper applications are used to let your browser read and use various types of files, such as those that play sound, read video files, or perform other functions. Plug-ins perform much the same function. The only difference between the two is that when using a helper application, these programs usually run in a second window. Plug-ins, on the other hand, are automatically recognized by the browser and their functions are integrated into the browser's main window. As of press time, there are more than 200 helper applications and plug-ins available for download. For a current listing of what's available, access the Netscape home page (http://www.netscape.com) and conduct a search for "plugins."