What device is used to connect multiple USB devices to a computer?

A hub is a device specifically designed to connect multiple USB devices to a single computer or to extend the number of USB ports available on a computer. When you plug a USB hub into a computer's USB port, it allows you to connect various USB devices such as printers, external hard drives, keyboards, and mice through the hub, effectively increasing the number of devices that can be used simultaneously.

Hubs come in various configurations, offering several additional ports and sometimes features like power supply to ensure that connected devices receive sufficient power. They operate on a principle of sharing the single connection from the computer among multiple devices, making them an essential accessory for users needing to connect multiple peripherals without having to constantly plug and unplug devices.

While a dock may also provide additional connectivity options and often includes USB ports, it typically refers to a station that may combine various interfaces and also include power delivery or video output, which is beyond the function of merely connecting USB devices. A cable usually refers to the physical medium that connects devices, rather than a multi-device connection point. A switch, in networking terms, typically refers to a device that connects multiple computers or network devices and is not applicable in the context of USB connections.