Utility Software

Utility Software

The Utility Software is system software that helps to maintain the proper and smooth functioning of a Computer System. It assists the Operating System to manage, organize, maintain, and optimize the functioning of the computer system.

Utility Software performs certain tasks like virus detection, installation, and uninstallation, data backup, deletion of unwanted files, etc. Some examples are antivirus software, file management tools, compression tools, disk management tools, etc.

Types of Utility Software

1. Antivirus

A virus is a malicious software that enters the system along with a host program. Moreover, it multiplies with time and makes several copies which in turn slows down and corrupts the system. 

An antivirus is a utility software that helps to keep the computer virus-free. Moreover, it notifies when any malicious file is detected and removes such files. In addition, it scans any new device attached to the computer and discards any virus if there. Moreover, it also scans the system from time to time for any threats and disposes of them. Examples of antivirus are McAfee Antivirus, Quickheal Antivirus, Windows Defender, etc.

2. File Management System

These utility software are used to manage files of the computer system. Since files are an important part of the system as all the data is stored in the files. Therefore, this utility software help to browse, search, arrange, find information, and quickly preview the files of the system.

Windows Explorer is a default file management tool present in the system. Some other examples of file management tools are Google Desktop, Double Commander, Directory Opus, etc.

3. Compression Tools

An important part of a computer is storage space, it is very important to maintain this storage. Therefore, we use certain utility software to compress big files and decrease their size, these are compression tools.The format of the files changes while compressing and we cannot access or edit them directly. In addition, we can easily decompress the file and get the original file back. Examples of compression tools are WinZip, WinRAR, WinAce, PeaZip, 7-Zip, etc.

4. Disk Management Tools

These utility software are used to manage data on disks. Moreover, they perform functions like partitioning devices, manage drives, etc.Examples of disk management tools are MiniTool Partition Wizard, Paragon Partition Manager, etc.

5. Disk Cleanup Tool

This utility software helps to free up the disk space. In addition, the files which are no longer in use are removed from the disk. Examples are Razer Cortex, Piriform CCleaner, etc.

6. Disk Defragmenter

This utility software helps to reduce the fragmentation and hence, reduces the access speed. Defragmenting refers to rearranging files and storing them in contiguous memory locations. Moreover, saves time in reading from files and writing files to disk. Examples of disk defragmenters are Perfect disk, Deflaggler, etc.

7. Backup Utility

This utility software helps to back up the files, folders, databases, or complete disks. Moreover, backup refers to duplicating the disk information so that the data can be restored if any data loss happens.

Browse more Topics under Software Concepts

• System Software
• Application Software

Advantages of Utility Software

The advantages are as follows:

1. Enhances performance.
2. Manages space.
3. Manages files and data.
4. Helps to customize interface and desktop.
5. Helps to remove useless files. 
6. Keep the system safe and secure.
7. Helps to recover files after a loss.

In conclusion, we can say that it makes the working of a computer system efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is utility software?

A1. Utility software is a type of system software used to manage, organize, optimize, and enhance the functioning of a computer system.

Q2. What are the types of utility software?

A2. Several types of utility software are as follows:

• Antivirus
• File Management System
• Disk Management tools
• Compression tools
• Disk cleanup tool
• File Management System
• Disk Defragmenter
• Backup utility

Q3. What is an antivirus?

A3. An antivirus is software that detects and helps to get rid of viruses. Examples are Quickheal Antivirus, McAfee Antivirus, etc.