What technology does Microsoft Windows Update utilize to check for updates on a system?

Microsoft Windows Update employs ActiveX controls to facilitate the process of checking for and downloading updates to the system. ActiveX technology allows applications to interact with the web in a way that provides dynamic and interactive content. When you access Windows Update via Internet Explorer or other browsers that support ActiveX, these controls run on your system to check for applicable updates, download them, and install them.

ActiveX is particularly suited for this task because it can execute scripts and interact directly with the underlying operating system, which is necessary for managing updates and system configurations securely and efficiently. This capability makes ActiveX a vital component in the Windows Update process, ensuring that users receive the latest patches and updates for their operating system to maintain security and functionality.