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

The primary function of an operating system in a computer is to provide a user interface and manage hardware and software resources. This means that the operating system acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware, facilitating interaction through graphical user interfaces (like Windows or macOS) or command-line interfaces (like Linux).

It manages the system's resources, including the CPU, memory, disk space, and peripheral devices, ensuring that each application can run smoothly without interfering with others. For example, when a user opens a file, the operating system allocates the necessary resources for that task, manages memory allocation, and handles input and output operations.

In addition, the operating system is responsible for scheduling tasks, controlling the execution of programs, and providing essential services to software applications, allowing them to function effectively on the hardware. This central role underscores why the operating system is a critical component of any computer system.