Basics of Computers Utility Software

Basics of Computers Utility Software

Application software which helps the OS perform some specialized tasks is called utility software. Let's look at some of the most common software for the utilities.

Antivirus

A virus may be described as a malicious program that binds itself to a host computer, creating several copies of itself, slowing down, corrupting or destroying the system. A program which helps the OS provide users with a virus-free environment is named antivirus. An anti-virus searches the system for some virus and, if found, by removing or isolating it, it gets rid of it. This can identify other types of viruses such as boot virus, trojan, worm, spyware and so on.

If some external storage unit, such as a USB drive, is attached to the system, it is checked by anti-virus software and alerted if a virus is detected. You may configure your system to scan or scan regularly anytime you feel the need. It is best to use a mix of all techniques to maintain the system virus safe.

File management tools

As you know, file storage is an essential operating system feature because all data and commands are processed in the form of files on the computer. Utility software that provides regular file management tasks such as searching, scanning, updating, preparing to release, etc. is called file management tools. Definitions of these applications include Windows Explorer on Windows 10, chrome browser, Directory Opus, Double Commander, etc.

Compression tools

For computer networks storage space is still at a premium. Operating systems are therefore also looking for means of reducing the amount of storage space that files require. Compression tools are utilities that support operating systems shorten files to take up less space. Upon compression, files are stored in a different format and can't be easily accessed or modified. Until it can be read for further usage it needs to be uncompressed. The common compression tools include WinRAR, PeaZip, The Unarchiver, etc.

Disk Cleanup

Disc cleaning tools help free up storage space for the users. The app scans hard disks to locate files that are no longer needed, and by removing them, it frees up space.

Disk Defragmenter

File defragmenter is a disk management tool that improves speeds of file access by rearranging scattered data on neighboring locations. Large files are broken down into bits which can be stored in non-adjacent places when there are adjacent ones. A user accesses these files, the speed of access is slow due to fragmentation. Disk defragmenter tool scans the hard disk and helps to combine fragments of files such that they can be placed in adjacent places.

Backup

Backup service helps to back up files, folders, databases, or whole disks. Backups are made such that in the case of data failure data may be restored. Backup is a feature made accessible across all operating systems. Backup can be taken in the same or separate drive in stand-alone systems. Backup can be performed on backup servers in case of networked systems.