P3 explain the purpose of different software utilities
What is the purpose of different software utilities
Software utilities offer security in the form of virus protection and firewalls
Firewalls
Firewalls build a protective barrier around computers that are connected to a network, so that only authorised programs can access data on a particular workstation.
The user can control exactly which software is allowed to pass data in and out of the system. For example, automatic updates might be allowed for some installed software.
Cleanup tools
Over a period of time, a PC becomes cluttered with data that you do not need.
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Removal of cookies: Each time you visit a new website and register so that you can receive newsletter updates or make a purchase, a cookie is most likely left on your PC so that the site can recognise you the next time you visit.
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Internet history: Each time you request a page on the Internet, a copy of that page is retained in the Temporary Internet Files folder.
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Defragmentation: Each time you save a file, the space on your hard disk begins to fill. When files are deleted, some space becomes available, which appears as ‘gaps’ on the map of the disk.
Drive formatting
For storage media to be recognised by your computer so that it can be used to store data files, it has to be initialised or ‘formatted’.
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Physical (low-level) formatting tests the surface, scanning for imperfections and setting aside those sectors that cannot be used.
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Logical (high-level) formatting prepares the disk by setting up a file system which then defines how files and folders will be stored and accessed.