The holidays are fast approaching and everyone is trying to find the perfect gift. In my last two articles I suggested some gift ideas for the geek in your life who has a laptop. Keeping with the theme of the prior articles this week I cover some basic computer gifts that anyone will enjoy whether they are using a laptop or desktop. They are the gifts that keep on giving!

Webcam

A webcam is a device that can be used for several different applications. It can be used to take a picture if yourself (or whoever is sitting in front of the computer) and save the picture on the computer or send over the Internet. It can also be used in real-time during video conferencing, Internet phone calls or Internet chatting so that the participants can view each other during the conversation.

If you have family or friends that live in a different location it makes a webcam can keep you connected year round.

Wireless Keyboard and Mouse

Most computers still come with a wired mouse and keyboard and though they work fine a wireless keyboard and mouse allow for better movement and you are not tethered by cables. (If you have ever had to place you computer in a location that you didnft like just to be able to plug in the mouse and keyboard you know what I mean by being tethered). You can get a wireless keyboard and mouse together has a combination package or individually if you want only one to be wireless.

Speakers

Almost all computer come with speakers as a standard accessory but they are not always the best quality. You can upgrade the speakers on your computer to improve sound quality. If you have an audio geek on your gift list an new and improved pair of speakers may be a great gift choice.

USB Thumb Drive

A geek can never have too many USB drives. They are great for backing up data, transferring files and they fit comfortably in a back pocket for easy transfer. They are available in a variety of sizes and prices ranges - even different colors!

Software Subscription

Many software packages require a yearly subscription in order to receive software updates and technical support. An example of such software is virus scanning and protection software - though you can continue to run the software after a year if you donft upgrade then you will no longer receive updates and information about new viruses.

A great gift is to renew a software subscription for someone (if they need it) or a gift certificate for them to renew when needed. If they donft have any virus scanning software at all that would make a perfect gift and one that will keep them protected all year long!

New Software

There are all kinds of great software packages available that make great gifts. These can include games, graphics, fonts, organizers, greeting card makes and thousands of others! A good software package does not have to break the bank it just takes a little shopping around to find the right package. Many computer and office supply stores have many software titles available for under ten dollars - though some may not be great software the price is right.