Alternative to Java Applet for File System Access from Web

Question

I'd like to integrate a application into a web site which allows user to manipulate files on their local machine via the web browser.

Flash and Silverlight run at with low permissions and no file system access.

Are there alternatives to using a java applet?

Answer 1

You could use Java Web Start or if you could get away with a desktop app, use Adobe Air.

Answer 2

You could use an ActiveX control but it will run only on IE.