A utility program is a type of software specifically designed to help manage, maintain, and optimize computer systems and their resources. It plays a supporting role for users and developers by performing tasks related to computer management, such as virus protection, password management, file/folder management, disk management, and system optimization. Utility programs are focused on enabling the smooth functioning of the computer and can be broadly categorized into system utilities, security utilities, and file management utilities. They are considered part of system software and are essential for improving system performance and enhancing security.