Which component is known as the "brain" of a computer?

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is widely recognized as the "brain" of a computer because it is responsible for executing instructions, performing calculations, and managing data flow within the system. The CPU processes commands from both hardware and software, making it a critical component for the overall functioning of a computer. It interprets and carries out instructions from programs, allowing for tasks ranging from simple calculations to complex operations.

The role of the CPU in processing information is akin to that of a brain in a living organism, where it makes decisions and controls the responses to various stimuli. This central role in managing operations makes it essential for the performance and efficiency of the computer as a whole, distinguishing it from other components like the hard disk, which stores data; the motherboard, which connects the various parts of the computer; and random access memory (RAM), which temporarily holds data that the CPU is currently using.