This allows for transferring large volumes of data from one PC to another, which is ideal when upgrading to a new system. Connect to a high-speed 10 Gigabit Ethernet network via an adapter or use a Thunderbolt cable to connect two computers over a peer-to-peer network. Utilize a PCIe expansion chassis to access compatible PCIe devices, such as video capture devices for live-streaming gameplay. Connect USB devices like mice, keyboards, controllers, and headsets for gaming. Connect a high-speed external Thunderbolt™ SSD to expand the storage capacity of your system and achieve speeds on par with internal drives. Thunderbolt designated monitors can be connected directly. One Thunderbolt 4 port can connect up to two 4K 60hz DisplayPort or HDMI monitors through a compatible dock or an adapter. Older Thunderbolt devices will work too, but require an adapter. Thunderbolt™ 3 devices and cables are compatible with Thunderbolt 4 ports. Connect devices bearing the Thunderbolt™ logo, including docks, displays, storage, and video capture devices. The ports fit standard USB-C type connectors. Thunderbolt 4 ports are compatible with many connection standards, including previous versions of Thunderbolt™, USB, DisplayPort, and PCle. That means data can be moved to and from external storage quickly, and that up to five Thunderbolt devices can be connected for flexible device configurations-all powered by one port.

Thunderbolt 4 ports have a 40Gbps (gigabits per second) bidirectional bandwidth. It delivers high-speed data transfer, outputs a video signal, and can deliver power to compatible devices (including charging a lightweight laptop) simultaneously. Still others transfer video signals from your PC to an external monitor. Others transfer data from devices to the PC.

While all ports fulfill the basic purpose of connecting input/output devices to a PC, Thunderbolt 4 ports have several distinct advantages:

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