What does a keyboard primarily serve as in a computer setup?

A keyboard primarily serves as an input device in a computer setup. Input devices are essential components that allow users to interact with the computer by entering data, commands, and instructions. The keyboard facilitates this interaction by translating physical keystrokes into signals that the computer recognizes and processes.

When you type on a keyboard, it sends electrical signals to the computer's processor, which interprets those signals as specific characters or commands. This direct user-to-computer interface is vital for tasks ranging from simple typing to complex command input in software applications.

In contrast, output devices display or present information to the user, while storage devices are designed to save data for future use. Processing devices, like the computer's CPU, handle the operations and calculations required to execute commands. Unlike these other devices, which serve different roles in a computer system, the keyboard's primary function is clear and focused on input.