Which of the following is NOT a function of an operating system?

An operating system plays a crucial role in managing hardware and software components of a computer, as well as executing essential tasks. It handles the execution of basic tasks by providing a user interface, managing input and output operations, and coordinating tasks between various applications and the hardware. Additionally, it interacts with hardware and software to facilitate effective communication, enabling applications to utilize system resources efficiently.

The management of system resources is another key function of an operating system. It allocates memory, schedules processor time, and manages storage and peripheral devices, ensuring that applications can run smoothly without conflict.

Conducting internet searches, on the other hand, is not a core function of an operating system. While users often use an operating system to access web browsers or search engines for this purpose, the actual process of searching the internet is handled by applications designed for that task, not the operating system itself. Therefore, this option is correctly identified as not being a function of an operating system.