When I connect the hub, I get this message: “The Generic USB Hub is a HI-SPEED USB device and will function at reduced speed when plugged into a non-HI-SPEED port.” What does message this mean?

The message indicates the USB port in your computer is a low speed USB 1.1 port. This will limit the USB speed to USB 1.1. If you need high speed capability, you can purchase a high speed USB card for your desktop or laptop computer at a local computer store.