Which of the following types of computer software utilities transfers a file from one format to another so that it can be used by an application other than the one used to create it?

The correct choice refers to file conversion utilities, which are specifically designed to change a file's format so that it can be read by different applications. These utilities are essential when working with diverse file types, enabling compatibility across various software. For example, converting a document from a Word format to a PDF allows the file to be opened and viewed correctly in applications that do not support Word files.

Data compression, on the other hand, reduces file size without altering the original format, primarily for storage efficiency or faster transmission. Backup utilities focus on creating copies of files or data to safeguard against loss, while file defragmentation tools reorganize fragmented data on a hard drive to improve read/write efficiency, but do not deal with file format changes. Thus, file conversion is the only utility among the options that specifically addresses the need to switch file formats for compatibility with different applications.