What type of program controls specific devices attached to a computer?

The correct choice is indeed the device driver, as it is specifically designed to act as an intermediary between the operating system and the hardware devices connected to a computer. Device drivers allow the operating system and applications to communicate with hardware components, such as printers, graphics cards, or keyboards, facilitating control over these devices without requiring users to understand the hardware details.

Device drivers translate the generic commands from the operating system into device-specific commands, ensuring that each piece of hardware operates correctly and efficiently. They are critical for enabling the operating system to use hardware resources effectively by managing the interface between software and hardware.

In contrast, firmware is software that is closely tied to specific hardware and is typically embedded directly into the device itself. While it does control the device's functionality, it operates at a more fundamental level than device drivers and cannot be easily modified. Operating systems are responsible for managing all computer resources and running applications but do not directly control devices without the assistance of device drivers. Application software, on the other hand, is designed to perform specific tasks for users and usually relies on device drivers and the operating system to function properly.