What is the purpose of a browser?

The purpose of a browser is to access and display files and data from networks, particularly the World Wide Web. Browsers interpret HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, allowing users to view web pages, interact with online content, and navigate between websites using hyperlinks. They facilitate the retrieval of various types of content from servers and present that information in a user-friendly format. By connecting to the internet through URLs, browsers serve as the gateway for users to access a vast array of information and services available online.

Understanding this function is crucial, as it differentiates web browsers from other internet-related software. For example, a program that measures internet speed focuses on the performance of the internet connection rather than providing access to data. Similarly, a server that stores website content operates on the backend to deliver data to browsers, while a type of internet security software aims to protect users from threats rather than facilitate access to online resources. Therefore, the choice that correctly identifies the browser's role is the one that points to its function of accessing and displaying information.