Microsoft HTML Application Host (MSHTA) is a Windows Application used to execute Microsoft HTML Applications (HTA). It provides a platform to manage and run HTML Applications in an isolated environment. HTAs are basically HTML and scripting language files that are self-contained HTML applications. HTAs offer the same features of a normal website and are easier to develop than a full-fledged application.
Overview
Using Microsoft (R) HTML Application Host allows developers to build and package HTML and script-based programs which can be run as standalone applications. HTAs are also much faster to develop than a full-fledged application. By using Microsoft HTML Application Host, developers can create interactive applications with an embedded scripting language and Dynamic Hypertext Markup Language (DHTML). The applications that are created using MHTAs are standalone programs ran outside of any web browser.
Using Microsoft (R) HTML Application Host - A Guide
Step 1: Download and Install Microsoft (R) HTML Application Host
Download and install the latest version of Microsoft HTML Application Host. The download is available on the Microsoft website [1].
Step 2: Create an HTA Application
Create a new HTA application file by opening a simple text editor, such as Notepad++. Then save the file with the extension “.hta”. This will be the new HTA application file.
Step 3: Design the User Interface
Now, design the user interface by adding HTML and scripting language elements. For example, you can use HTML headers, paragraphs and buttons. The scripting language elements allow you to interact with the user interface and to create dynamic functionality.
Step 4: Develop the Application
Once the user interface is set up, you can start developing the application’s functionality. For example, script elements can be added to create calculations, animations and other interactive features.
Step 5: Compile and Run the Application
Now, open the application in Microsoft HTML Application Host. Once the application is open, you can start testing and debugging the application. After the application is finished, it can be packaged and deployed for use.
FAQ
What is Microsoft (R) HTML Application Host?
Microsoft HTML Application Host is a Windows Application used to execute Microsoft HTML Applications (HTA). It provides a platform to manage and run HTML Applications in an isolated environment.
How can I develop an HTA application?
To develop an HTA application, you will need to download and install the Microsoft HTML Application Host, create an HTA application file using a text editor, design the user interface using HTML and scripting language elements, develop the application’s functionality, and compile and run the application.
What are the benefits of using Microsoft HTML Application Host?
The benefits of using Microsoft HTML Application Host include faster development time than a full-fledged application, interactive applications with an embedded scripting language and Dynamic Hypertext Markup Language (DHTML).
What is a HTA file?
An HTA file is a Microsoft HTML Application file that is used to create and run self-contained HTML applications. HTAs offer the same features of a normal website and are easier to develop than a full-fledged application.
How do I package and deploy an HTA application?
To package and deploy an HTA application, you will need to open the application in Microsoft HTML Application Host. After the application is finished, it can be packaged and deployed for use.
References
[1] Microsoft - https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/previous-versions/windows/internet-explorer/ie-developer/platform-apis/aa767728(v=vs.85)