What are CPU cores primarily responsible for?

CPU cores are primarily responsible for running instructions simultaneously. Each core in a CPU can execute its own stream of instructions, which enables the processor to handle multiple tasks at once, enhancing performance and efficiency. This parallel processing capability is vital in modern computing, as it allows for better multitasking and improved execution of complex applications.

Having multiple cores means that a CPU can process more instructions at the same time, rather than relying on a single core to complete tasks serially. As software and applications continually evolve to require more processing power, the ability of a CPU to manage several operations at once becomes increasingly important for overall system performance.

The other listed functions, such as cooling the CPU or managing external devices, do not directly relate to the operation of CPU cores. Instead, these tasks are managed by other components in the computer system. Similarly, while data storage is a crucial aspect of computing, it is handled by memory and storage devices rather than the CPU cores themselves.