Struggling to solve the NYT crossword clue “Kind of computer port”? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common tech-related crossword clues — short, vague, and designed to challenge your knowledge of computer hardware, particularly connection interfaces.
In this detailed guide, you’ll discover the correct answer, understand why it fits, learn about other possible solutions, and see how this clue connects to modern computer ports like USB, HDMI, and Thunderbolt.
Let’s explore everything you need to know.
What Does “Kind of Computer Port” Refer To?
This clue typically appears in tech-themed crosswords like The New York Times Crossword, often referring to widely used types of input/output interfaces on computers.
A computer port is a hardware interface that allows communication between the computer and external devices, commonly known as peripherals. These include keyboards, external drives, monitors, printers, and smartphones.
The clue is usually short and requires a three-letter answer.
The Correct Answer: USB
Answer: USB
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is the most commonly used and most likely answer for this crossword clue. It’s recognized by Google’s Knowledge Graph as a standard entity in technology and computer hardware.
Why USB?
- It is a three-letter abbreviation that fits standard crossword formats
- It is the most widely used computer port
- It’s generic enough to match the wording of “kind of computer port”
- Recognized entity with semantic relevance across search engines
What Is a USB Port?
A USB port is a universal connector used to interface a wide variety of peripheral devices with your computer. It allows for both data transfer and power delivery.
Common devices connected through USB ports include:
- USB flash drives
- External hard drives
- Keyboards and mice
- Smartphones and tablets
- Game controllers
- Printers and scanners
Other Possible Answers to This Clue
Sometimes, crosswords vary their clues or require answers with different letter counts. Here are Google-recognized hardware interfaces and port types that might also serve as correct answers depending on the puzzle:
| Port Type | Description | Common Use Case |
| HDMI | High-Definition Multimedia Interface | Video and audio output |
| VGA | Video Graphics Array | Older display connections |
| DVI | Digital Visual Interface | Digital video transmission |
| Ethernet | Wired network interface | LAN and internet access |
| Thunderbolt | High-speed Apple-specific port | Data, display, power |
| FireWire | Legacy port used for multimedia devices | External storage, cameras |
| Lightning | Apple’s proprietary port for iOS devices | Charging, data transfer |
| USB-C | Reversible modern USB connector | Data, display, and power |
If your crossword clue has more than three boxes or a unique theme, one of these could be the right solution.
Related Search & Semantic Keywords to Rank This Article
To help this article rank higher, here are related keywords and semantic terms integrated naturally into the content:
- Kind of computer connector
- Crossword clue for USB
- Common computer port types
- NYT tech crossword clue
- What is a USB port
- Universal Serial Bus clue
- Computer interface crossword
- Input/output port types
- HDMI, VGA, USB-C comparison
- Crossword help for NYT tech clues
These terms reflect actual Google search behaviors and are recognized in semantic search.
Additional Context: Computer Port Types
Here’s a quick overview of modern and legacy ports, all relevant to the crossword clue:
- USB-A – Traditional rectangular USB
- USB-C – Reversible, fast, multifunctional
- HDMI – Transfers video and audio to displays
- VGA & DVI – Older connectors for monitors
- Thunderbolt 3/4 – High-speed, often seen on Macs
- Ethernet – RJ-45 wired internet connection
- Lightning – Common on iPhones and iPads
- FireWire – Found on older multimedia systems
Frequently Asked Questions
Is USB always the correct answer for this clue?
Most of the time, yes — especially if the crossword clue requires a three-letter word. USB is the most common and fitting answer for “kind of computer port.”
Why do crosswords use tech terms like USB and HDMI?
Tech terms are short, relevant, and widely known, making them perfect for crossword puzzles that aim to stay modern and accessible.
What is a computer port in simple terms?
It’s a physical connection point on a computer where you plug in devices like flash drives, monitors, or printers. Ports help transfer data, video, audio, or power.
Are USB and HDMI the same thing?
No. USB is primarily for data and power, while HDMI is used for video and audio output.
Related Crossword Clues You Might See
- Computer interface type (Answer: USB, HDMI)
- Port used for monitors (Answer: VGA, HDMI)
- Apple-specific computer port (Answer: Thunderbolt)
- Old computer connector (Answer: FireWire, VGA)
These often appear in the New York Times, the LA Times, and the USA Today crossword puzzles
Conclusion
When the clue “Kind of computer port” shows up in your NYT crossword, the most accurate and common answer is USB. It’s short, universally recognized, and fits perfectly with the clue’s wording and intent. However, remember other tech ports like HDMI, VGA, Ethernet, and Thunderbolt, which may also be used depending on the puzzle’s format and word count.
By understanding how these hardware interfaces work and how they’re referred to in modern language, you’ll gain an edge in solving future tech-themed crossword puzzles — and boost your general tech literacy along the way.
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