Which term describes the central software that manages hardware and software resources on a computer?

Which term describes the central software that manages hardware and software resources on a computer?

• A. Web Browser
• B. Operating System
• C. Database
• D. Compiler

Answer: (B)

Think of the computer’s core as the manager that coordinates everything. The central software that handles hardware and software resources is the operating system. It schedules programs on the CPU, manages memory, controls devices like disk drives and displays, and provides a stable interface for applications to run and for users to interact with the computer. It also organizes storage, enforces security, and supports essential services that other software relies on. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux. The web browser is for viewing web content, a database stores and retrieves data, and a compiler translates code into executable instructions.

Think of the computer’s core as the manager that coordinates everything. The central software that handles hardware and software resources is the operating system. It schedules programs on the CPU, manages memory, controls devices like disk drives and displays, and provides a stable interface for applications to run and for users to interact with the computer. It also organizes storage, enforces security, and supports essential services that other software relies on. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux. The web browser is for viewing web content, a database stores and retrieves data, and a compiler translates code into executable instructions.