Why is Read-only memory (ROM) important in a computer?

Read-only memory (ROM) plays a crucial role in a computer system because it holds critical startup instructions necessary for booting the system. This non-volatile memory retains its contents even when the power is turned off, ensuring that essential firmware—such as the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface)—is always available when the computer is powered on. These startup instructions are responsible for initializing hardware components and loading the operating system into RAM, thus enabling the computer to operate correctly.

The other options do not accurately describe the purpose of ROM. While ROM is not intended for fast data processing, that function is typically associated with RAM (Random Access Memory). It does not serve as temporary file storage, as that role is filled by volatile memory like RAM or hard drives. Additionally, ROM is not designed for frequent data updates; its primary purpose is to maintain stable and unchanging essential system instructions.