What is the primary purpose of an operating system?

The primary purpose of an operating system is to manage hardware and software resources. This includes overseeing the computer's hardware, such as the CPU, memory, disk drives, and input/output devices, and coordinating the execution of programs. The operating system acts as an intermediary between users and the hardware, allowing users to interact with the computer in a user-friendly manner. It handles tasks such as managing system memory, controlling processes, facilitating communication between hardware components, and providing a user interface.

While providing internet access, running applications, and protecting against malware are important functions of modern operating systems, they are not the primary purpose of the operating system itself. The ability to connect to the internet, run applications, and maintain security is typically built upon the foundational role of the operating system in managing system resources effectively.