Legacy port
A legacy computer port is a type of computer connector that has been largely replaced by newer technologies but may still be found on older systems or specialized equipment. These ports were once standard for connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers, and monitors. However, they have been superseded by faster, more compact, and more versatile alternatives such as USB, HDMI, and DisplayPort.
Common legacy ports include:
- Parallel Port (LPT) – Used for printers and scanners, replaced by USB and wireless connections.
- Serial Port (RS-232) – Used for modems and industrial equipment, replaced by USB.
- PS/2 Port – Used for keyboards and mice, replaced by USB.
- VGA Port – Used for video output, replaced by HDMI and DisplayPort.
- SCSI Port – Used for storage devices, replaced by SATA and USB.
- ISA Expansion Slots – Used for peripheral cards, replaced by PCI and PCIe.
Legacy ports are still used in some industrial, scientific, and retro computing applications where older hardware needs to be maintained.