What is a device driver and what is its role in an operating system?

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What is a device driver and what is its role in an operating system?

A device driver is a software component that allows the operating system to communicate and interact with hardware devices. Its role in an operating system is to provide a bridge between the operating system and the hardware, enabling the operating system to control and manage the hardware devices. Device drivers handle the low-level details of device communication, translating the commands and requests from the operating system into a language that the hardware device can understand. They also handle device-specific operations, such as initializing, configuring, and controlling the hardware devices. Overall, device drivers play a crucial role in facilitating the smooth functioning and efficient utilization of hardware devices within an operating system.