utility program
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A utility program is a type of computer software designed to perform a specific, common task that supports the operation, maintenance, or management of a computer system. It provides essential services for the core processes of a computer, distinct from application software (which is for end-user tasks) and system software (like the operating system kernel).
Usage
Utility programs are used to analyze, configure, optimize, or maintain a computer. They handle routine but crucial tasks that support the overall computing environment. - The system administrator ran a utility program to defragment the hard drive and improve performance. - Before installing the new software, I used a disk cleanup utility program to free up space.
Advanced Usage
- "to invoke a utility program": to call upon or start a utility program.
- You can invoke the backup utility program from the command line.
- "built-in utility program": a utility that is included as part of an operating system.
- Windows includes a built-in utility program for creating disk partitions.
Variants and Related Words
- Utility (noun, computing context): Often used as a shorter, informal form of "utility program."
- This antivirus is a very useful system utility.
- Utility software (noun phrase): The broader category of software that includes utility programs.
- Utility software is essential for keeping a computer healthy.
Synonyms
- Service program: A program that provides a support service to other programs or the system.
- Tool: A general term for a program, often a utility, used to accomplish a specific task.
- System utility: Emphasizes the program's role in managing system resources.
Related Phrases
- Utility suite: A collection of several utility programs bundled together.
- The IT department purchased a utility suite that includes tools for backup, security, and diagnostics.
Noun
- (computer science) a program designed for general support of the processes of a computer
- a computer system provides utility programs to perform the tasks needed by most users