What software manages a computer's hardware and software resources?

The operating system is software that serves as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware. It manages a computer's hardware resources, such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and input/output devices, ensuring that each application receives the necessary resources to function effectively. This vital software layer also provides essential services such as file management, process management, and security, which are crucial for the overall operation of both system and application software.

In contrast, applications typically refer to software programs designed to perform specific tasks for users, such as word processors or web browsers, but do not directly manage hardware resources. Middleware acts as a bridge between different software applications or services, facilitating communication and data management, but does not manage hardware resources directly. Firmware is specialized software programmed into hardware devices, providing low-level control and functionality to the device, but it does not manage the broader spectrum of computer resources like an operating system does. Thus, the operating system is the correct answer, as it plays a central role in overseeing and coordinating both hardware and software resources in a computer system.