What is the primary function of hard drives, CDs, and DVDs in a computer system?

The primary function of hard drives, CDs, and DVDs in a computer system is the storage of programs and data. These storage media serve as repositories for both the operating system and the applications that run on the computer, as well as for user-generated data, such as documents, images, and videos.

Hard drives are typically used for permanent storage in computers, allowing for large capacities and fast access to information. CDs and DVDs, while having different storage capacities and read/write mechanisms, also serve a similar function, often being used for distributing software, media content, or backing up data.

While input devices are essential for entering data into a computer, they do not store that data. Processing of data is the purpose of the computer’s central processing unit (CPU) rather than the storage devices themselves. Communication with external devices involves transferring data, but it does not pertain to the primary function of hard drives, CDs, and DVDs. Thus, their main role is clearly centered around storing programs and data.