What is the role of an operating system (OS) on a computer?

An operating system (OS) plays a crucial role in managing computer resources and providing an interface between the user and the hardware. Its responsibilities include controlling hardware components, managing user interfaces, and facilitating the interaction between software applications and hardware.

The OS is essential for ensuring that hardware resources, such as the CPU, memory, and input/output devices, are allocated efficiently and used to their full potential. It acts as an intermediary, allowing users to interact with the system through graphical or command-line interfaces without needing to understand the complexities of the hardware.

In summary, the primary role of the OS is to provide an accessible interface for users while effectively managing and coordinating the underlying hardware, making it a foundational component of computing environments.