What term describes computer programs that instruct the hardware on operations to perform?

The term that best describes computer programs that instruct the hardware on operations to perform is software. Software encompasses a broad array of programs that provide instructions to the hardware, allowing it to perform specific tasks. It includes everything from operating systems that manage hardware resources to applications that execute particular user-oriented functions.

While firmware is a type of software that is specifically embedded into hardware devices, providing low-level control for the device's specific functionality, it does not encompass the entire range of programs. Operating systems are a subset of software designed to manage computer hardware and software resources, providing common services for application software, but they are just one category within the broader classification of software. Applications, on the other hand, refer to software designed for end users to accomplish specific tasks such as word processing or web browsing, and also fall within the category of software. However, when the question refers to computer programs that provide operational instructions to hardware in general, software is the most encompassing and accurate term.