Which component retrieves instructions from memory for the processor?

The Control Unit is responsible for orchestrating and managing the operations of the processor, which includes retrieving instructions from memory. When a program is executed, the Control Unit fetches the instructions stored in random access memory (RAM). It then interprets these instructions and directs the processor on how to execute them, coordinating the activities of the other components in the CPU. This systematic retrieval and execution of instructions allow the CPU to perform tasks effectively.

In contrast, the Data Bus acts as a pathway for data transfer between the processor, memory, and other components but does not actively retrieve instructions itself. RAM serves as a temporary storage area for data and instructions, but it is the Control Unit that manages how this information is utilized by the processor. The Storage Drive, such as a hard disk or SSD, is responsible for long-term data storage, but it does not directly interact with instruction execution during processing; instead, it is the Control Unit that retrieves and utilizes the data from RAM for executing tasks.