Which term describes the connection points used to enhance a computer's functionality?

The term "ports" refers to the connection points on a computer that allow for the attachment of various peripherals and devices, thereby enhancing the computer's functionality. These ports can facilitate communication and data transfer between the computer and external devices such as printers, keyboards, mice, external hard drives, and monitors.

Ports can come in various types, including USB (Universal Serial Bus), HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), Ethernet, and more, each serving different purposes in the connection ecosystem. For instance, a USB port allows users to connect devices for data transfer and power, while an HDMI port connects display devices for video and audio output.

In contrast, USB drives are physical storage devices that connect via these ports but do not describe the connection points themselves. Protocols refer to the rules that govern how data is transmitted and received over networks, defining the communication standards but not the physical connection points. Networks represent the broader system of interconnected devices, rather than the specific interfaces used by individual computers to connect with peripheral devices. Thus, "ports" is the most accurate term in this context.