Which aspect of computing involves the combination of hardware and software?

The correct answer highlights a fundamental concept in computing: the integration of hardware and software to create a functioning computer system. A computer system refers to the complete setup that includes all the physical components (hardware) such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and various peripherals, along with the software that instructs these components on how to operate. This synergy between hardware and software is essential for performing tasks, running applications, and providing user interfaces.

Networking, while crucial in the realm of computing, primarily concerns the interconnection of multiple computing devices for communication purposes, rather than the hardware-software combination. System design focuses on the planning and blueprinting of a system's architecture but doesn't always encapsulate the finished combined product. Data processing involves manipulating data within a system but is more about the workflows and operations performed on data rather than the holistic integration of hardware and software. Therefore, when considering the question of what truly encompasses the combination of hardware and software, "computer system" is the most accurate choice.