What is the primary function of an optical disk?

The primary function of an optical disk is to store files for backup or distribution. Optical disks, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs, utilize laser technology to read and write data. They are widely used for distributing software, music, movies, and other forms of data because they can hold significant amounts of information in a portable format.

Optical disks are particularly well-suited for long-term storage solutions, allowing users to create backups of important data and keep it safe over time. This ability to store data in a compact, durable medium makes optical disks a reliable choice for archival purposes as well as for sharing files with others.

While there are other storage mediums and methods that provide faster access to data or serve as primary storage, the core role of optical disks in the context of this question is centered around their functionality for storing and distributing files.