What is the main function of the Common Unix Printing System?

The main function of the Common Unix Printing System (CUPS) is to connect to printers both locally and over a network. CUPS serves as a printing system for Unix-like operating systems, which allows users to set up and manage printers, send print jobs, and handle print queues efficiently. It abstracts the complexities of various printer interfaces and protocols, enabling compatibility with a wide range of printer models and types.

CUPS supports the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) which facilitates networked printing capabilities among different devices and systems, making it a versatile solution for organizations with diverse printing needs. By allowing both local and network connections to printers, CUPS plays a crucial role in enabling users to seamlessly print documents from their computers to various printers, regardless of their physical location.