This is software designed to improve the performance of a computer rather than to directly benefit the user like application software. The operating system will include utility software, but you could install more if necessary.

Backup – this is not simply to back up files that may have been deleted or edited by mistake. It may also allow you to revert a computer to a previous state. This could be useful if you update a piece of software and do not like the new updates – you could revert back to the previous versions.

Compression Utility – allows files to be compressed to take up less storage space or so that they can be transferred faster.

Disk Cleaner – this can remove unnecessary files and data such as temporary files no longer required. This can free up storage space and potentially speed up the performance of the computer.

Formatting – as operating systems store data in different ways, storage devices need to be formatted to ensure they work properly.

Security Utilities – These include software that allows user to set up accounts or to encrypt data, firewalls or antivirus software (in the exam each of these could be included as separate examples).

Disk Defragmentation – as files are saved and resaved on the hard drive, the additional data is saved in the next available free space on the hard drive. Over time, files end up being broken into small pieces across the hard drive. Defragmentation is the process of rearranging the data so the files are stored together in consecutive spaces. As a result data for files can be accessed more quickly, enhancing the performance of the computer.