Which of the following best describes a personal computer?

A personal computer is best described as a single-user, multi-purpose computing device. This definition captures the essence of what a personal computer is intended for: it is designed to serve the needs of an individual user, allowing them to perform a variety of tasks such as word processing, gaming, internet browsing, and multimedia playback. The personal computer is versatile, supporting a wide range of software applications that cater to different user requirements.

In contrast to the other options, personal computers are not exclusively built for network use, corporate environments, or dependent on mainframe support. While they can connect to networks and serve various purposes within corporate settings, these characteristics do not define a personal computer. Instead, the focus on being a single-user device emphasizes its typical use case in homes and small businesses, showcasing its role in personal computing.