What is the primary function of the Domain Name System (DNS)?

The primary function of the Domain Name System (DNS) is to translate domain names into IP addresses. This process is essential because while humans prefer to use easy-to-remember domain names (like www.example.com), computers communicate using numerical IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1). When a user enters a domain name in their browser, the DNS translates that name into the corresponding IP address, allowing the browser to locate and connect to the correct web server.

This translation is crucial for the functioning of the internet, as it enables users to access websites without needing to remember complex numerical addresses. DNS serves as the directory of the internet, making it user-friendly and scalable. The other options presented, such as storing user passwords securely, managing access to applications, or filtering malware, do not pertain to the core functionality of the DNS, which is strictly concerned with the resolution of domain names.