Abstract: Methods and systems consistent with the present invention provide efficiency and accuracy for use of plug-ins by installing server-specific plug-ins. Server-specific plug-ins are installed with unique identification, such as MIME types, referencing a specific server so that the plug-in may work in conjunction with that server. In this manner, similar plug-ins installed from different servers can automatically work specifically with its compatible server, thereby increasing flexibility, accuracy and ease of use while reducing ambiguity. As a result, a browser accessing a specific type of data, such as a MIME type, will automatically be directed to the correct server without significant reworking of the system. The decision where to route the activation request may be made in response to the MIME type of the plug-in that was installed.

Abstract: Methods and systems in accordance with the present invention provide flexibility for use of plug-ins by implementing a forwarding plug-in. The forwarding plug-in forwards a user's or application's service request to the appropriate implementation plug-in for processing. In this manner, data files of the same data type, such as a MIME type, can be automatically processed and implemented by different plug-ins, thereby increasing flexibility and ease of use. As a result, different versions of data files of the same data type can be processed automatically without significant reworking of the system. The decision where to route the activation request may be made, for example, by a forwarding plug-in based on a user query via a graphical user input (“GUI”) or configuration data stored with the forwarding plug-in which determines which plug-in is to be used.