How does a kernel operate within an operating system?

The kernel is the core component of an operating system that plays a critical role in managing system resources and facilitating communication between hardware and software. It operates as an intermediary layer, allowing applications to interact with the hardware without needing to understand the details of the hardware operations. This includes managing CPU time, memory resources, and input/output devices.

By controlling hardware access and resource allocation, the kernel ensures that processes run efficiently and securely. For example, when an application needs to perform a task that involves the hardware (like writing to disk or sending data over a network), it sends requests to the kernel. The kernel processes these requests, manages the scheduling of tasks, and communicates with the device drivers that interact directly with the hardware.

The other options describe functions that do not accurately represent the kernel's role: providing a graphical interface is typically handled by the user interface components of the operating system; storing user files and application data is managed by the file system; and acting as a primary storage device is not the function of the kernel but rather a physical component like a hard drive or SSD.