At the end of this topic, studentsshould be able to:

a)b)

Identify types of utility programsExplain the functions of utility programs

1

Chapter Two

Computer System2.6.1 System Software

2.6.1.2 Utility Program

Utility Programs

• A utility program is a type of system software thatallows a user to perform maintenance-type tasks

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Figure 8-272Discovering Computers : Chapter 8

Utility Programs

Types of Utility Program1.

2.3.4.5.6.7.

File Manager

Disk Cleanup Compression Tools Anti-Virus Program Spyware Remover Disk DefragmenterBackup and Restore

3Discovering Computers : Chapter 8

, moving, and sorting files and folders

1. File Manager

• To provide routine filemanagement tasks :----

Displaying a list of filesOrganizing files in foldersCopying, renaming, deletingCreating shortcuts

• Example:WindowsWindows

Explorer,File Manager,

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Figure 8-284Discovering Computers : Chapter 8

2. Disk Cleanup

• A disk cleanup utility searches unnecessary files:

for and removes

-

---

Downloaded program files

Temporary Internet filesDeleted filesUnused program files

• Example:Microsoft Disk Cleanup (proprietary)Ccleaner (open source)

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Figure 8-315Discovering Computers : Chapter 8

3. Compression Tools

• To reduce the size of a file or storage

– Compressing files frees up room on the storage media- Compressed files sometimes are called

– Can be uncompressedzipped files

• Examples: 7ZIP, PKZIP (Open source)WinZip ,WinRAR (proprietary software)

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4. Anti-virus Program

• Anti-virus program protects a computer against viruses byidentifying and removing any computer viruses foundmemory or storage

A virus describes a potentially damaging computer program that affects a computer negatively

in

•

• Example : Avira antivirus, AVG (Open source)Kaspersky Antivirus, Norton Antivirus (proprietary)

7Discovering Computers : Chapter 8

5. Spyware Remover

Spyware is a program placed on a computerwithout the user’s knowledge that secretly

collects information about the user

• A spyware remover detects and deletes spywareand other similar programs

• Example : Spyware Doctor, Spyware RemoverSpybot, Spyware Blaster

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Nixory (open source)Kaspersky internet security (proprietary)

6. Disk Defragmenter

• A disk defragmenter reorganizes the files andunused space on a computer’s hard disk so that theoperating system accessesprograms run faster

data more quickly and

•Example : Ultra Defrag, MyDefrag, Defraggler (open source)

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Figure 8-329Discovering Computers : Chapter 8

Microsoft Disk Defragmenter (proprietary)

7. Backup and Restore Utility

• A backup utility allows users to copy files to another storage medium in case of damage or lossA restore utility reverses the process and returns backed up files to their original formExample : BackupPC,

•

•

Windows BackupRestore (Proprietary)Bacula, Amanda (Open source)

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