What is the primary role of the CMOS in modern computers?

The primary role of the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) in modern computers is to save information about system devices. This small amount of memory is used to store critical system settings, including the date and time, hardware configuration, and system settings that the computer needs to boot and operate correctly. The CMOS retains this information while the computer is powered off, thanks to a small battery that keeps it charged.

In contrast, system memory management is typically handled by the RAM and the operating system, while peripheral device management is managed by device drivers and controllers. Enhancing CPU performance involves various factors, including architecture and overclocking techniques, rather than the role of the CMOS. Therefore, the correct choice accurately reflects the function of the CMOS as it pertains to storing vital system information essential for the computer’s operations.