Input / Output Devices

One definition of peripheral is "relating to or situated on the edge or periphery of something".

In the context of a PC peripheral is an odd term as many of the Input / Output (I/O) devices are integrated. In the case of a Laptop, the disk, keyboard, screen and mouse are all incorporated.

The term peripheral only becomes obvious when printers, scanners, and tape streamers are connected either via cable or WiFi.

Any other USB connected device can also be categorised as a peripheral.