What is the function of USB ports on a computer?

The function of USB ports on a computer is primarily to connect peripheral equipment. USB, which stands for Universal Serial Bus, provides a standardized connection method that allows devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, scanners, external storage drives, and many other devices to communicate with the computer. This versatility makes USB ports integral to the operation of various external devices, facilitating power supply and data exchange.

Additionally, USB ports support hot-swapping, allowing users to connect and disconnect devices without shutting down the computer. This feature enhances user convenience and efficiency in managing peripheral devices, making USB an essential connection type in modern computer systems.

In contrast, connecting internal components typically involves different types of connections like SATA for storage drives or PCIe for expansion cards, while managing network traffic and enhancing graphics performance pertain to different components of the computer architecture and functionality.