Plug computer

Alternatively, the computer may resemble an AC adapter or a similarly small device.

Most versions do not have provisions for connecting a display and are best suited to running media servers, back-up services, or file sharing and remote access functions; thus acting as a bridge between in-home protocols (such as Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) and Server Message Block (SMB)) and cloud-based services.

There are, however, plug computer offerings that have analog VGA monitor and/or HDMI connectors, which, along with multiple USB ports, permit the use of a display, keyboard, and mouse, thus making them full-fledged, low-power alternatives to desktop and laptop computers.

Plug computers typically consume little power and are inexpensive.

A number of other devices of this type began to appear at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show.