Active Networks represent a significant step in the evolution of packet-switched networks. It aims to move dynamic computation within the network. Mobile agent technology is a novel paradigm for distributed computation. This paper discusses the applicability of mobile agent technology for the development of active networks, both security policy and resource management, and other expected application as well. Based on the discussion, it describes a general mobile agent based Active Network (AN) architecture at last. Active Networks represent a significant step in the evolution of packet-switched networks. It aims to move dynamic computation within the network. Mobile agent technology is a novel paradigm for distributed computation. This paper discusses the applicability of mobile agent technology for the development of active networks, both security policy and resource management, and other expected application as well. Based on the discussion, it describes a general mobile agent based Active Network (AN) architecture at last.