What is the current standard for an expansion slot in modern computers?

The current standard for an expansion slot in modern computers is PCI Express (PCIe). This technology has become the predominant interface for connecting expansion cards, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network interface cards. PCIe offers several advantages over previous standards, including higher transfer rates and improved bandwidth, as it can provide multiple lanes for data transmission, allowing for faster and more efficient communication between the motherboard and the connected devices.

This standard also supports backward compatibility, making it flexible for integrating older PCI cards; however, performance is maximized when using newer PCIe devices. Overall, PCI Express has effectively replaced earlier technologies due to its superior speed, scalability, and efficiency in handling modern workloads.