What is the primary function of the 'sudo' command?

The primary function of the 'sudo' command is to enable users to execute commands as another user, typically the superuser or root. This command is essential for performing administrative tasks without logging in as the root user. It allows specific users to run specific commands with elevated privileges, which enhances security by limiting the number of users who have full root access and by providing an audit trail of what commands were run with elevated privileges.

Using 'sudo' ensures that regular users can perform necessary administrative tasks while maintaining control over the system's security. It helps prevent accidental changes or malicious activities since users must explicitly invoke 'sudo' for commands requiring higher privileges.

The other options do not accurately describe the purpose of the 'sudo' command. For instance, changing passwords is typically accomplished using specific commands like 'passwd', not through 'sudo' by itself. Running commands in the background usually involves the use of '&' at the end of the command line. While 'sudo' is used to gain elevated permissions, it does not "attempt to fetch superuser permission" in a general sense but rather executes commands with the privileges dictated by the configuration in the '/etc/sudoers' file.