A program that performs a specific task related to the management of computer functions, resources, or files. Utility programs range from the simple to the sophisticated, and many programmers specialize in producing and distributing them as shareware. There are utilities that perform file and directory management, data compression, disk defragmentation and repair, system diagnostics, graphics viewing, and system security, for example. Many utilities are written as memory-resident programs meant to serve as adjuncts to operating systems. Many operating systems incorporate such popular utility functions as undeleting, password protection, memory management, virus protection, and file compression.
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