What is the primary task of the CPU?

The primary task of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) is to carry out instructions from programs. The CPU acts as the brain of the computer, processing data and executing commands that allow software applications to perform tasks. This involves fetching instructions from memory, decoding them to understand the operations required, and then executing those operations.

This core function of executing program instructions is essential for the computer to perform any kind of computational work, whether it’s running a simple application or complex software. While the CPU may interact with other components like memory and storage to facilitate processing, its fundamental role is centered around instruction execution, which drives all functionalities of a computer system.

Other options such as managing data storage systems or enhancing video graphics pertain to different specialized components in the computer, like the hard drive or the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), respectively. These tasks can be integral to the overall system, but they do not encapsulate the primary function of the CPU itself. User authentication, although important for security, is a separate process that may involve other hardware and software components, again reflecting a function that is beyond the primary task of the CPU.