What is the function of an operating system in a computer?

An operating system is essential for the effective functioning of a computer, primarily because it manages system resources and services. It acts as an intermediary between the hardware and the application software, ensuring that the various components of the system, such as the CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices, work together seamlessly.

The operating system allocates resources to different programs, manages tasks and processes, controls input and output, and maintains system stability and security. It enables multitasking, allowing users to run multiple applications simultaneously without conflicts over resource usage. Additionally, the operating system handles communication between hardware components and software applications, ensuring that everything operates smoothly.

In contrast, while applications can be performed efficiently and graphics performance can be enhanced, those tasks are ultimately reliant on the effective management provided by the operating system. Moreover, optimizing internet connectivity is an important function, but it is a subset of the broader resource management role that an operating system fulfills. Therefore, the core function of an operating system is indeed to manage system resources and services comprehensively.