What is the function of a kernel in an operating system?

The function of a kernel in an operating system is to act as a crucial intermediary between hardware and software, coordinating communication and resource management. It is responsible for managing system calls from applications, handling input and output operations, managing memory allocation, and overseeing device control.

By efficiently coordinating these interactions, the kernel ensures that software applications can run without needing to manage hardware resources directly. This provides a level of abstraction, making it easier for developers to write applications without worrying about the specifics of hardware operations. The kernel also ensures that multiple processes can run simultaneously by managing system resources effectively, which enhances performance and stability.

Other choices mention functions that are not typically associated with the kernel. For example, while security features may be part of the operating system, virus protection is generally handled by specific antivirus software rather than the kernel itself. Similarly, user interfaces and internet connection management are typically managed by higher-level components of the operating system, not the kernel, which operates at a lower level to manage machine resources.