One of the best ways to protect a laptop from an opportunistic thief is to equip it with a lock and cable. These laptop locks are similar to bicycle locks that use a cable to attach the bike to a sturdier and more immobile object, like a bike rack. In the case of laptops, a cable is attached to the computer, and then looped around an anchored structure, such as a desk or wall beam.

Laptop thieves are most often looking for an easy mark. They want to be able to pick up a small object and steal it without much fuss. With the right tools, like a bolt cutter, some thieves could probably cut through laptop cables -- but it’s going to take some effort and time, and the tools may be hard to conceal.

Some manufacturers have gotten wise to this risk. They are now making laptop cables from cut-resistant galvanized steel, which is enough to deter many thieves.

For prices ranging from $20 and up, investing in a laptop lock and cable is likely a smart move for your son as he takes his computer to college. Still, nothing is better than the diligence of keeping an eye on the laptop when he’s in the library or a coffee shop -- or keeping it out of sight in a dormitory room when it’s not in use. But a laptop cable is the next best thing to keeping a watchful eye on the computer.