Which of the following storage devices typically contains the operating system?

The hard drive is typically the primary storage device that contains the operating system in most computers. This storage device provides the necessary space for the operating system files, application software, and other data, enabling the computer to boot up and function properly. The hard drive maintains persistent storage, meaning that the data is retained even when the computer is powered off.

While other options like optical drives and SSDs can also store operating systems, the hard drive has traditionally been the most common and is often used in conjunction with SSDs for hybrid systems. Floppy drives, on the other hand, have limited capacity and are largely outdated, making them impractical for modern operating systems. The hard drive's larger storage capacity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness make it the standard choice for housing the operating system in most computing environments.