You'll need a good word processing application, such as Microsoft Word. You will want a printer to print out your work. Since high-quality printers are inexpensive and sometimes even come with a computer purchase as a promotion, it makes sense to get one for convenience and completeness sake. Adaptive notetakers are least likely to be specific targets of theft. Even if a thief can figure out what it is, he won't have a clue how to use it.
Notebook computers are appealing targets to thieves, so guard it closely while in public.
Desktop computers are the hardest to steal because they are big and heavy, but it is certainly possible. Evaluate your environment to determine if you need a security device. Security devices include everything from cables that wrap around an immobile object to motion sensors that trigger a loud alarm if the computer is moved. Do The Research Most universities will recommend certain computer hardware. Use these recommendations as a guideline.