Utility Programs
Utility Programs
Utility Programs
Is a type of system software that allows a user to perform maintenance-type tasks, usually related to managing computer, it devices , or it programs.
FUNCTION : y Managing files y Searching for files y Uninstalling files y Viewing images y Cleaning up disks y Defragmenting disks y Backing up files and disks y Setting up screen savers y Securing a computer from unauthorized access y Protecting against viruses y Removing spyware and adware
unauthorized access Protecting against viruses Removing spyware and adware Filtering internet contents Compressing files Playing media files Burning optical disks Maintaining a personal computer
File manager
Is a utility that performs function related to files management.
y File management : a file manager performs are display a list of files on a storage
medium. a) Organizing files in folders b) Copying, renaming, deleting, moving and sorting files.
documents.
Search utility
Is a program that attempts to locate a file on your computer base on criteria you specify
y Criteria : a) Should be a word or words contained in a file b) Date the file was created or modified
c) d) e)
Size of the file Location of the files File name, author/artist and others similar properties Can look through documents, photos, music, and other files.
Uninstaller
Is a utility that removes program, as well as any associated entries in the system files.
y When install :
the operating system records the information it uses to run the software in the system files. y Uninstaller : deletes files and folders from the hard disks, as well as removes program
Image viewer
Is a utility that allows users to display, copy, and print the contents of a graphic file
y Can see images without having to open them in a paint or image editing
Disk cleanup
Is a utility searches for and removes unnecessary files Unnecessary files : Downloaded program files Temporary internet files Deleted files Unused program files
Disk defragmenter
Is a utility that recognizes the files and unused space on a computer hard disks so that the operating system accesses data more quickly and programs run faster
Slows down disks accesses and thus performance of the entire computer Defragmenter the disk : reorganize it so that the files are stored in contiguous sectors, solve this problem . Operating system usually included disk defragmenter : Windows Disk Defragmenter is available in the System Tool list.
y Back up programs Compress. Requires less storage space for the backup files than for the original files. y Restore utility reverses the process and returns backed up file to their original form. Backup utilities work with a restore utility. y Should backup : For original files not lost, damaged, or destroyed. y Operating system : cloud storage; services on Web that provides storage to
Screen saver
Is a utility that causes a display device s screen to show a moving image or blank screen if no keyboard or mouse activity occurs for a specified time
y Originally were developed to prevent a problem called ghosting y Also popular for : Security Business Entertainment purposes Available for minimal fee in stores and on the Web
Personal firewall
Is a utility that detects and protects a personal computer from unauthorized instructions.
y Constantly monitor all transmissions to and from a computer y Operating system often include a personal firewall :
a)
Windows automatically enables its built-in personal firewall called Windows Firewall.
Antivirus program
Virus : a) Worm : copies itself rapidly b) Trojan horse : hides within or looks like a legitimate program such as screen saver Antivirus program : Protect a computer against viruses by identifying and removing viruses found in memory, on storage media or an incoming files.
Internet filter
Filter : Program that remove or blocks certain item from being displayed. Internet filter : a) Anti-spam program is an unsolicited email message or newsgroup posting sent to many recipients or newsgroups at once. b) Web filters : a program that restricts access to certain material on the Web. c) Phishing filters : a program that warns or blocks you from potentially fraudulent or suspicious web sites. d) Pop-up blockers : a filtering program that stops pop-up ads from displaying on web pages.
File compression
shrink the size of a file, sometimes are called zipped file.
Takes up less storage than the original files Compressing files frees up room on the storage media Improve system performance
Media player
Is a program that allows you to view images and animation, listen to audio and watch video files on your computer.
capability to organize files
convert them to different formats connect to and purchase media from an online media store download podcasts and vodcasts burn audio CDs transfer media to portable media players
Disc burning
Is writes text, graphics, audio, and video files on a recordable or rewritable CD, DVD, or Blu-ray Disc.
Backup contents of their hard disk on an optical disc Made duplicates of uncopyrighted music or movies