Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) is a widely used interface standard for connecting various devices to computers and other devices. It is an improved version of the original USB 1.0/1.1 standard and offers faster data transfer speeds and enhanced capabilities.

Key features and characteristics of USB 2.0 include:

1. Data Transfer Speed: USB 2.0 introduced a significant increase in data transfer speeds compared to its predecessor, USB 1.1. USB 2.0 supports data rates of up to 480 megabits per second (Mbps), which is about 40 times faster than the maximum speed of USB 1.1 (12 Mbps).
2. Backward Compatibility: USB 2.0 devices are generally backward compatible with USB 1.1 ports and devices. However, when connected to a USB 1.1 port, the device will operate at the slower USB 1.1 speeds.
3. Connector Types: USB 2.0 uses the same types of connectors as USB 1.1, including the Type A (standard), Type B (printer), and Mini-USB and Micro-USB connectors used for smaller devices like cameras and smartphones.
4. Hot Swapping: USB 2.0 continues to support “hot swapping,” which means devices can be connected and disconnected without needing to restart the computer.
5. Plug-and-Play: USB 2.0 devices are designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of devices without requiring complex driver installations. Many devices are recognized and configured automatically by the operating system.
6. Enhanced Power Management: USB 2.0 introduced improved power management capabilities, allowing devices to draw more power as needed and reducing power consumption when devices are idle.
7. Multiple Devices: USB 2.0 supports the use of multiple devices through the use of hubs. A USB hub can be used to expand the number of available USB ports on a computer.

USB 2.0 became widely adopted due to its faster data transfer speeds and improved capabilities compared to USB 1.1. It played a crucial role in the proliferation of various USB-based devices, such as external hard drives, flash drives, digital cameras, printers, and more. While newer USB standards, such as USB 3.0, 3.1, and USB-C, offer even higher speeds and enhanced features, USB 2.0 remains relevant for devices that do not require the maximum data transfer rates provided by newer standards.