Utility and Application software

Purpose of Utility Software 

Utility software  is system software designed to optimise the performance of the computer or perform tasks such as backing up files, restoring corrupted files from backup, compressing or decompressing data, encrypting data before transmission or providing a firewall.

Features and uses of utility software

Disk Defragmentation

A disk defragmenter is a utility program that will reorganise a hard disk so that files which have been split up into blocks and stored all over the disk will be recombined in a single series of sequential blocks. This makes reading a file quicker.   

The software utility optimise drives, previously called Disk Defragmenter, can be set to run automatically on a weekly schedule on the latest versions of windows. You can also optimise drives on your PC manually. 

Virus Checker 

A virus checker utility checks a hard drive for viruses and removes them. Depending on the level of protection offered, incoming emails and internet downloads will also be checked and cleaned. Windows 10 comes with built-in virus protection Windows Defender.

Compression Software

Several utility programs are supplied as part of the operating system. These include utilities to copy, move and delete folders and to provide screensavers. Other utility programs such as WinZip for compressing and sharing files may have to be purchased from independent suppliers. 

Zipped or compressed files can be transmitted much more quickly over the internet. Sometimes there is a limit to the size of a file which can be transmitted- if you have a 15Mb photograph, you will not be able to email it to a friend that has a 5Mb limit on the attachments they can receive. Even if they can receive the file, it may take several minutes to download if they do not have a broadband connection. 

Factors affecting choice, use and performance of utility software

Performance: The software must be adequate for the task. Many utilities have a cut-down version which is free, but which does not include all desired features of capabilities. Storage capacity can be restricted on cloud utility programs, for more storage you would need to upgrade and pay for the full version, also enhanced features such as password protection. 

Cost: If free software is available and does the required job, then this will be factored into the choice. Microsoft  has a free inbuilt virus checker; is it necessary to pay for an additional anti-malware utility? You need to…