What is the purpose of managing processes in an operating system?

Managing processes in an operating system is crucial for controlling program execution timelines and resource usage. This involves scheduling the order in which processes run and allocating system resources such as CPU time, memory, and input/output devices to ensure efficient and effective operation of software applications. By prioritizing tasks and managing how resources are allocated among competing processes, the operating system can optimize the performance of the machine, prevent conflicts, and ensure that all running applications operate smoothly.

Other options do relate to certain aspects of operating systems but are not central to the primary role of process management. While maintaining user files is important, it falls under file management rather than the direct task of process management. Improving network connections pertains to network management, which is separate from how an operating system handles its processes. Enhancing video graphics performance relates to graphics processing and hardware interactions, but process management primarily concerns itself with the broader scope of controlling how processes run and interact with system resources.