Discuss the role of utility software in the context of computer performance.

Utilities are those application programs that assist the computer by performing housekeeping functions like backing up disk or scanning / cleaning viruses or arranging information etc.
Utilities bridge the gaps by helping to solve the problems and maximize our computer's potential. Some important utilities are as follows:

1. Text Editor — This utility program is used for creating, editing text files.
2. Backup Utility — This utility program facilitates the backing-up of disk so that in case of any damage or data-loss, this backed up data may be used.
3. Compression Utility — This utility program facilitates compression of files. Large files can be compressed so that they take less storage area.
4. Disk Defragmentor — This program speeds up disk access by rearranging the files and free space on our computer, so that files are stored in contiguous units and free space is consolidated in one contiguous block.
5. Antivirus Software — This utility program ensures virus-free work environment. It scans our disk for viruses and removes them, if any virus is found. Moreover, some antivirus software remains present in memory all the time so that they can detect the viruses and counterattack them.