ISO files primarily serve what purpose?

ISO files are primarily used as a format for optical media like CDs and DVDs. This file type is an archive that contains an image of the entire contents of a disc, including the file structure and data. By using an ISO file, users can create an exact replica of a physical disc for purposes such as distribution, backup, or installation. This ability to replicate disc images allows for easier sharing and deployment of software or media without needing the physical media itself.

Other options, such as compressing large files, do not accurately represent the primary use of an ISO file since ISO is not specifically designed for compression but rather for disc imaging. Similarly, while audio files and text documents serve distinct purposes, they are not relevant to the function of ISO files, which focus on optical media representation. Thus, the primary role of an ISO file in the context of optical media is what sets it apart from the other choices provided.