Technology is the current state of our knowledge of how to combine resources to produce desired products, to solve problems, fulfill needs, or satisfy wants. Technology in this sense includes technical methods, skills, processes, techniques, tools and raw materials (for example, in such uses as computer technology, construction technology, or medical technology).

Technology broadly involves the use and application of knowledge (e.g., scientific, engineering, mathematical, language, and historical), both formally and informally, to achieve some "practical" result (Roussel, et al.).

The earliest technologies converted readily occurring natural resources (such as rock, wood and other vegetation, bone and other animal byproducts) into simple tools. As tools increase in complexity, so does the type of knowledge needed to support them. Moreover, these tools have become so complex that entire industries have arisen to support and develop succeeding generations of increasingly more complex tools.

Technology, throughout history, has allowed people to complete more tasks in less time and with less energy. Many herald this as a way of making life easier. In many ways, technology simplifies life.