What does the CPU primarily do?

The CPU, or central processing unit, serves as the brain of the computer, primarily responsible for performing calculations and executing instructions. It processes data by following sequences of operations dictated by the instructions in the software or operating system. This involves interpreting instructions, performing arithmetic and logical operations, and controlling the timing of these actions. Essentially, the CPU executes the fundamental operations that run programs, making it a critical component of computer functionality.

In the context of the other options, while they are important functions within a computer system, they do not encapsulate the primary role of the CPU. Memory management and storage are typically handled by the memory management unit (MMU) and storage controllers, network connections are managed by network interface cards (NICs) and related hardware, and updates to system software are usually performed by the operating system or specific update utilities rather than the CPU itself. Thus, the focus on the CPU's core role in calculation and instruction execution distinguishes it in this question.