A D-shaped, 25-pin female port on the back of a computer is known as a:

The D-shaped, 25-pin female port on the back of a computer is recognized as a parallel port. This type of port is designed for transmitting data in parallel, meaning multiple bits of data are sent simultaneously across multiple channels. The parallel port was primarily used for connecting printers and other peripherals to a computer, allowing for faster data transfer than previous methods, such as serial communication, which sends data one bit at a time.

In addition to its specific shape and pin configuration, the parallel port uses a Centronics connector, which is a standard connector used for connecting printers. Its D-sub connector design, featuring a 25-pin female connection, is what distinguishes it from other ports on the computer.

Other options describe different types of ports that serve other functions. USB ports, for instance, have become the standard for connecting a wide variety of devices due to their versatility and speed. HDMI ports specialize in transmitting high-definition video and audio from a source to a display. Serial ports, typically featuring a smaller set of pins (commonly 9 or 25), are predominantly used for serial communication, which, unlike parallel communication, sends data one bit at a time.