What is the function of a backup power supply (UPS)?

The function of a backup power supply, commonly known as an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), is to provide emergency power to a computer during a power outage or electrical failure. This is crucial because it allows the computer to continue operating, giving the user time to save their work and shut down the system properly without the risk of data loss or hardware damage. The UPS ensures that sensitive electronic devices remain powered even when the main electrical supply is interrupted, which protects against data corruption and hardware malfunctions caused by sudden power loss.

In addition to emergency power, a UPS often features built-in surge protection, safeguarding against voltage spikes that can occur when power returns. This characteristic further underscores the importance of having a UPS for computer systems, particularly in environments where data integrity and uptime are critical.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary purpose of a UPS. While continuous power during high usage can be a consideration in certain contexts, a UPS is primarily designed for emergency situations, not for managing high demand. Storing data permanently is a function of storage devices, such as hard drives or SSDs, rather than a UPS. Lastly, the speed of a computer's processor is influenced by its architecture and specifications, rather than being affected by a backup power supply.