Which type of utility software is designed to protect users from malicious code?

The utility software specifically designed to protect users from malicious code is anti-malware. This type of software is focused on detecting, preventing, and removing malicious software, which can include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Anti-malware operates in various ways, such as scanning files for known threats, monitoring system activities, and utilizing heuristic methods to identify previously unknown malware based on behavior and characteristics.

This protection is essential because malicious code can compromise the integrity of data, steal personal information, or render a system inoperable. Anti-malware programs play a crucial role in maintaining the security and functionality of personal and enterprise-level computing environments by providing real-time protection and periodic scans to ensure that systems remain secure against evolving threats.