What is the primary purpose of an operating system?

The primary purpose of an operating system is to manage computer hardware and software resources. Operating systems serve as a bridge between users and the computer hardware, ensuring that hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and input/output devices, work together efficiently. They coordinate tasks, manage system resources, and provide a stable environment for applications and users to interact with the computer. This fundamental role allows the operating system to facilitate multitasking, enforce security protocols, and oversee the execution of various programs.

In considering the other options, providing internet connectivity is a function that can be supported by an operating system but is not its main purpose. Creating electronic documents is more aligned with application software rather than the fundamental role of the operating system. Enhancing graphical user interfaces (GUIs) is also a feature that operating systems provide, but it is part of a broader set of functionalities that support the primary role of managing system resources. Thus, the management of both hardware and software resources is fundamental to the OS's operation and user experience.