What is the primary function of an Operating System (OS)?

The primary function of an Operating System (OS) is to manage hardware and software resources. This means that the OS acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware, handling tasks such as memory management, process scheduling, device management, and file system control. By managing these resources efficiently, the OS ensures that various applications can run smoothly and that hardware components like the CPU, memory, and input/output devices operate effectively and cooperatively.

While the OS does provide a user interface, connect to the internet, and support the running of applications, these are secondary functions that stem from its core role in resource management. The ability to serve as a platform for applications and provide connectivity are contingent on the effective management of the underlying hardware and software resources. Therefore, managing these resources is the most fundamental aspect of what makes an operating system essential for modern computing.