What defines an integer in computing?

An integer in computing is defined as a set of whole numbers, which includes both positive and negative values as well as zero. This means integers do not contain fractions or decimal points; they are complete, whole units. In programming, integers are commonly utilized for counting, indexing, and performing arithmetic operations without the complications that arise from using fractional values.

The other choices highlight various aspects of numerical representation in computing but do not accurately capture the definition of an integer. For instance, a set of fractions pertains to rational numbers, a floating point representation involves numbers that can contain decimal points, and while it is true that integers can be both positive and negative, the critical aspect of being whole numbers is what specifically defines them as integers. Thus, the essence of what constitutes an integer is captured succinctly by identifying it as a set of whole numbers.