What is the primary function of an Operating System?

The primary function of an Operating System (OS) is to act as an intermediary between the hardware of a computer and the software applications that run on it. This role is crucial because it enables the software to interact with the hardware components without needing to understand the complexities of the hardware.

The operating system manages hardware resources such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and input/output devices. By doing so, it abstracts the underlying hardware, providing a standardized interface for application programs to use. This allows software developers to write applications without needing to account for the specific details of the hardware on which they will be executed.

While handling applications is indeed a function of an OS, it is a more specific task that falls under the broader category of linking hardware and software. Similarly, displaying graphics is a task that may be supported by the OS through graphics drivers, and storing data securely pertains to data management aspects of the OS. However, these are all part of the overarching purpose of the OS, which encompasses the vital role of linking hardware and software systems.