What Is a Universal Serial Bus (USB)?

A Universal Serial Bus (USB) connects computers and peripherals. The USB replaces the different kinds of serial and parallel port connectors with one standardized plug and port combined. You can use a USB with various devices, including those for digital photography, digital imaging, PC-telephony, video conferencing, and others.

The primary types of USB connectors are USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed), USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed), and USB 1.1.The USB Implementers Forum, Inc. (USB-IF) provides detailed information about USB connectors.

USB-Compliant Products
Compliance testing conducted by the USB-IF helps manufacturers measure how well their products match USB specification. Products tested and certified by the USB-IF will work together. For more details, visit the USB Compliance Program page.