Which component of the Windows operating system allows users to view and control the hardware attached to the computer?

The correct choice is the Device Manager, as it is specifically designed to allow users to view and control the hardware components connected to their computer. This tool provides a detailed list of all the devices installed on the system, including their statuses and any potential issues that might affect their functionality. Users can enable, disable, uninstall, and update device drivers directly through this interface, making it an essential component for managing hardware.

The other options serve different functions within the Windows operating system. The Control Panel provides access to various system settings and configuration options, but it does not focus exclusively on hardware management. The Task Manager is used for monitoring system performance and managing running applications and processes, rather than directly controlling hardware. System Properties provides information about the computer's hardware, system settings, and performance but does not offer the level of control over devices that the Device Manager does.