The computer has become an important social hub. We use it to keep friends and family updated via e-mail. We learn about local events online. And, of course, we share digital photos and videos.

But if your mom and dad don't have a computer, they're left out. With some time and patience, though, you can get them online.

A modestly priced PC will accomplish what your parents need. Don't skimp on memory, though; aim for at least 512 megabytes. Get a roomy hard drive to store photos and videos of the grandchildren.

A Microsoft Windows PC with monitor can cost as little as $500. An Apple Mac Mini starts at $600, but you'll need to add a monitor, keyboard and mouse.

Also think about the extras. A digital camera is a must. A photo printer is a nice add-on, as is a scanner for converting old photos.

Computers come bundled with a variety of software. E-mail and music programs are standard. Most computers will connect to the Internet and display photos and videos.

Still, you may want to make some software upgrades. If you're worried about your budget, download free alternatives to pricey titles.

Photo software, like Adobe Photoshop Elements, is a must. But instead of paying for it, you can download Picasa, Google's free photo manager. For photo editing, there's Irfanview, also free on the Internet.

Your parents need a word processor and spreadsheet program to write letters and track finances. Many computers come with Microsoft Works; some have Microsoft Office. If the one you buy has neither, opt for OpenOffice.org. It has the same features as Microsoft Office and doesn't cost a dime.

Depending on their interests, other software titles may be in order.

You may find yourself responsible for teaching your parents to use the computer. You may also have to troubleshoot problems.

Instead, consider enrolling your parents in computer classes at a senior center. Or have your children teach them the ropes. It will make learning more fun.

If your parents have trouble using a mouse or seeing, set up accessibility options. Both Windows and Mac OS X have tools for the visually impaired. You can also adjust settings for greater control over the keyboard and mouse.

Don't forget privacy and security. Set up a firewall, antivirus software and two or more anti-spyware programs. Where possible, set them to update automatically.

Educate your parents about Internet dangers. Warn them about phishing, Internet scams and malicious Web sites.

To help protect against malicious downloads, set up a limited user account.

You've warned your parents about the dangers of the Internet. Hopefully you told them not to post information about themselves or family members. But they'll still want to share photos with those they trust.

Take some time to create an account at a reputable photo-sharing site. Kodak Gallery, Shutterfly and Picasa Web Albums are three.

Contact Kim Komando at gnstech@gns.gannett.com.