What does a search engine do?

A search engine's primary function is to retrieve information from the internet based on user queries. When a user types a query into a search engine, it processes that request and searches its indexed data for relevant content. The search engine algorithms determine the relevance and ranking of web pages, presenting the most appropriate results that match the user's input.

This involves crawling the web, indexing the available information, and using complex algorithms to assess and rank the content according to various factors, such as keyword relevance, site authority, and user engagement metrics. By doing so, search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo enable users to find specific information quickly and efficiently, making it a crucial tool for navigating the vast amount of data available on the internet.

Other options focus on functions that are not central to what search engines do. For instance, securely storing passwords or connecting servers pertains to different aspects of internet security and infrastructure rather than the retrieval of information. Similarly, tracking online behavior for advertising is related to data privacy and personalized advertising strategies, which is distinct from the core function of a search engine.