What component is necessary for connecting audio and video devices to a computer?

The correct choice is HDMI because it is specifically designed to transmit high-definition video and audio signals between devices. An HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable supports both video and multi-channel audio in a single cable, making it the ideal option for connecting devices such as televisions, projectors, and certain peripherals to a computer.

HDMI allows for clear, high-quality digital audio and video signal transfer, which is essential for activities that involve multimedia content, such as gaming, video streaming, or presentations. This versatility is one of the reasons HDMI has become a standard connector for audio-video devices.

Other potential options, such as USB, are used primarily for data transfer and device connectivity, though some USB types can carry video signals. However, they do not deliver the same level of integrated support for video and audio as HDMI, particularly in the context of high-definition applications. Network cables and Ethernet are primarily used for networking and internet connections rather than for connecting audio and video devices directly.