Utility software helps maintain, optimize, and protect computer systems. It includes programs for disk maintenance, backup, security, file management, and more. Common utilities perform tasks like defragmenting disks, creating backups, removing viruses and spam, compressing files, and finding files. Utility software helps analyze, configure, and keep computers running smoothly.

1. Ngoc Nguyen & Zack Fortier What is Utility Software?

2. What it does Help analyze, configure, optimize and maintain the computer Protect computer systems and keep them running smoothly Assist users in managing and transferring files Customize your computing environment and make computing resources more convenient to access

3. Defragmentation and disk utilities Maintain files on disk and arrange them in a manner that allows for fast access

4. Backup utilities Safeguard files by creating backup copies

5. More back-up Utilities Norton Ghost 15 Everyday Auto Back up (Freeware)

6. Security software Search for and remove viruses and spyware from computers, and guard against attacks

7. More Security Softwares Free: -AVG free edition -Symantec Antivirus free edition -Microsoft Security Essential Paid: -Kaspersky AV & IS 2010 -Norton 360 -Bit Defender -Eset NOD32

8. Spam and pop-up blockers Identify and remove unwanted junk mail and ads IE Mailbox

9. Windows cleaners Remove unwanted programs Maintain the Windows Registry

10. Diagnostic software Viewing system resources in a graphical format Ctrl + Alt + Del >>Task manager

11. File management utilities Copying, deleting, renaming, and organizing files

12. File compression utilities Bundle files together into one compressed file to save storage space and allow for easier transfer Eq: Winzip, Winrar, 7-Zip, etc.

13. File transfer utilities Move and share files across networks

14. Search utilities Find files on a computer system Start>> type in search box

15. Synchronization software Synchronize files across multiple computers such as a desktop and a notebook and a smart phone

16. Desktop enhancements Customize icons, shortcuts, color schemes, and other visual elements of the desktop

17. Screensaver, skins, themes, and wallpaper Provide a visual style for the desktop

18. Automation software, macros, and shortcut keys Automate frequent commands and command sequences, and assign them to a shortcut key or group of keys

19. All-in-One Tune Up Utilities (alt: Glary Utilities Free)

20. Credits Emerge with Computer Concepts Emerge>Concepts>Software>System Software > Utility Software.