Utility Software Flashcards
Utility Software
Used to manage system resources
Disk utilities
Designed to maintain the performance of a computer’s disk drive
Examples of Disk utilities
- File compressors
- Backup
- Disk defragmenter
File Compressors
Backing up very large files and sharing them online can be difficult. This utility compresses files to reduce their size and decompresses them for later access
Backup
You regularly want to back up for your files, but this can be slow as manual process. Backup utilities allow you to automate the backup process
Disk defragmenter
Over time a computer’s disk drive becomes fragmented, which slows down file access. This utility reorganises the data for quicker access, but is only required on a HDD when using Windows file systems.
Network utilities
Designed to maintain good network traffic and keep networks secure
Examples of Network utilities
- Firewalls
- Antivirus
Firewalls
Open networks are at risk from threats like hackers and worms. Firewalls prevent unauthorised access by monitoring and blocking suspicious traffic
Antivirus
The utility prevents computers from receiving viruses and detects and removes viruses that have already infected a system
Traceroute
Allows you to display the path that data packets travel over an IP network to help diagnose problems
Registry cleaners
Designed for Windows systems to remove old, redundant registry entries. This can help improve system performance
System Profiles
Display a detailed breakdown of the system, including hardware and software. This can help with deciding where a system needs upgrading and diagnosing problems with the system
