Schools use technology, students use technology. What do you need to buy your student in addition to spirals and ballpoint pens to make sure they are technologically supplied and ready for school?

We'll look at some software and security essentials for computers first, and then talk about hardware for students who are still at home and for students who are in school away from home.

I'm sure you know that students need to learn early about security and personal safety on the Internet, but you also need to be sure there is software is protecting your computer, too. Computers should have anti-virus software installed and set to automatically check for updates.

Students of any age need word processing and printing capability. Software like Microsoft Office, Open Office, Star Office or an account on Google Apps is the basic starting point. A reliable printer with adequate ink and paper suppplies on hand is a must, too. Beyond those basics, it will depend on the student's interests. Classes that require special software programs for music, photography, graphing, and other topics will probably suggest the needed software or provide access to free downloads for students. Wait for teacher recommendations on software for special interests.

For students still at home, the hardware requirements are similar to what you probably already have at home. If possible, provide an ergonomic workstation, mouse and keyboard setup for the whole family. In some situations, students can carry work from home to school on a USB flash drive. Check with the school about whether this is permitted before you buy any just for this use. USB flash drives are good for backup file storage, too, if you don't have any type of automatic backup for your computer.

When students are ready to leave home, the technology requirements go up, because you have to duplicate much of what you already have in the home.

A good laptop is essential. Luckily the prices for laptops continue to fall. A computer with decent speakers and a DVD player can provide dual service as a music player and movie screen. Equipped with software like Slingbox a laptop can also serve for TV. With space at a premium, making one screen do many jobs may be an important consideration.

Equip a laptop with plenty of memory and anti-virus protection. Of course, the laptop must work with wireless Internet. If your student plans to set up a wireless network in a dorm or apartment, be sure the wireless router is password protected and not open to everyone.

For a laptop or desktop computer away from home, password protected account entry or sign-in is needed to keep others from casually operating the computer. Encryption programs to encrypt sensitive data such as personal information, password files, and other information are needed. Another laptop essential is a cable lock or something to keep it from "walking away." Laptops are easy to steal, so even if you have a cable lock or some other sort of lockup plan, be sure to check with your insurance company to make sure a stolen laptop will be covered.

A data backup plan is important. A computer can be stolen, or just break down at a critical moment. Data backup can be as simple as a stack of CDs or a USB flash drive if you think your student will be responsible about manual backups. If the computer can be automated to back up to an external hard drive, then that may be the way to go.

You may want to provide a tech support plan of some sort, in case the computer experiences a meltdown. Often new computers come with a few months of free tech support, and plans can be extended.

Electrical outlets in dorms and apartments may be limited, so a couple of surge protectors are a good idea.

College students have more technology than computers to deal with. They may take along iPods, smart phones, cameras, and all sorts of high tech gadgets. All these devices will need beefed up memory cards, or extra memory cards. Make sure battery charging stations get included. Go green and get a solar powered battery charging rig.

An alarm clock is another essential. You may find a good alarm clock that includes a radio and an iPod dock, and thus combine three required items in one.

You'll find reviews and recommendations for high tech equipment at CNET's back to school gift guide.

Have I missed any high tech essentials that you know a student will need? Let us know.