Add-ons, plug-ins, and browser extensions are all pretty much the same: small technology applications users can download into their browsers. These applications make browsing the internet more convenient for users, but they also provide opportunities for you to promote your brand, products, and services.

The gadget gives readers a quick and easy way to share information through social media sites and blogs. Companies such as Boston.com, Sony Online Entertainment, and the Cincinnati Bengals use ShareThis to syndicate information about new products, specials, and events. If the information is interesting enough, fans will share the information with others and take care of distribution, with no further effort required by these companies.