Component Object Model

Okay kiddo, so let's talk about something called the component object model or COM. It's like a big toy box filled with different toys that can be played with in different ways.

In computer terms, these toys are actually pieces of software called "components". They can do different things like show pictures, make sounds, or even help us write documents.

Now, the nice thing about these components is that they can be reused over and over again in different programs. So, if we want to make a program that plays music and another program that edits photos, we can use the same music and photo components in both programs.

This is where the "model" part of COM comes in. It's a set of rules that help different programs use the same components in a consistent way. So, we don't have to rewrite the same code every time we want to use a component.

Think of it like having a set of instructions on how to play with each toy in the toy box. That way, we can share the toys with our friends and everyone knows how to play with them.

In short, COM is a way for different software components to work together and be reused across different programs. It's like a toy box with instructions on how to play with the toys inside.