Which of the following best defines an "operating system"?

An operating system is best defined as software that manages computer hardware and provides common services for computer programs. It serves as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware, allowing users to interact with the system and utilize its resources effectively. This includes managing memory, processing tasks, handling input and output devices, and ensuring the system remains stable and secure.

In contrast, the other choices represent different types of software that have specific functions. For instance, software used for creating and editing documents is typically known as a word processor. Security software is designed specifically to protect against malware, including viruses, rather than manage system resources. Additionally, tools designed for graphic design and multimedia focus on visual content creation and artistic tasks, rather than the overall management of hardware and services provided by the operating system.