What technology allows wireless connections for external hardware?

Bluetooth is a technology that enables wireless connections between devices, allowing for external hardware to communicate without the need for cables. It operates over relatively short distances, typically within 10 meters, making it suitable for connecting devices like wireless keyboards, mice, speakers, and headphones. Bluetooth manages both the connection and the transfer of data, facilitating a seamless user experience when using multiple compatible devices.

While USB, HDMI, and Ethernet all involve wired connections, they do not provide the wireless capability that Bluetooth offers. USB is primarily for connecting devices directly to a computer or power source; HDMI is used for transmitting video and audio signals between devices through cables, typically in home entertainment setups; and Ethernet is utilized for wired networking to connect devices to a local network or the internet. Each of these technologies serves specific purposes but lacks the wireless functionality that Bluetooth provides, making it the correct choice for enabling wireless connections for external hardware.