A Digital Signal Processor, or DSP, is a specialized microprocessor designed to efficiently process digital signals. These signals can include audio, video, and other data types that are converted from analog to digital form. DSPs are commonly used in applications like audio processing, telecommunications, and image processing, where they perform complex mathematical operations quickly. DSPs work by executing algorithms that manipulate the digital data to enhance or modify it. They are optimized for tasks such as filtering, compression, and error correction. By using DSPs, devices can achieve better performance and efficiency in handling real-time data, making them essential in modern technology.