What is the primary function of a motherboard in a computer?

The primary function of a motherboard in a computer is to connect various components necessary for input, output, processing, and storage. It serves as the main circuit board, providing the electrical pathways that allow the central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices, and peripheral devices (like mice and keyboards) to communicate with one another.

The motherboard houses essential components like the chipset, which manages data flow between the CPU and other parts, and offers slots for RAM and connections for storage drives. This connectivity is crucial for the system's overall functionality since all components rely on the motherboard to interact efficiently.

While regulating power supply and cooling the CPU are important for computer operation, they are not the primary functions of the motherboard itself. The power supply unit (PSU) manages power delivery, and cooling solutions are typically separate components designed to manage thermal output from the CPU. Similarly, while some motherboards may include storage functions via onboard storage solutions, their primary role is linking components rather than storing data directly.