What is an Operating System (OS)?

An Operating System (OS) is fundamentally defined as software that manages computer hardware and software resources. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware, ensuring that the various tasks needed by applications can be executed appropriately. This includes managing memory, processing power, storage, and devices, thereby allowing different programs to run simultaneously without interfering with one another.

In addition to managing hardware, the OS also provides a user interface, which can be graphical or command-line based, allowing users to interact with the system and perform operations easily. It takes care of system resources to ensure efficient operation and security, handling everything from file system management to task scheduling.

The other options do not accurately describe the role of an operating system. A program for editing documents refers specifically to applications designed for creating and modifying text files. A tool for enhancing gaming performance focuses solely on optimizing the gaming experience, which may be a function of specific software but does not encompass the broader management capabilities of an OS. Lastly, a type of network security pertains to measures designed to protect a network, which is unrelated to the fundamental purpose of an operating system.