A reading list for anyone who wants to relearn the fundamentals of computers and networks. Each pick has its own review on this blog, and every entry links to it. The list starts with how hardware and programs work, then moves through an overview of computer science, the OS, and networking.
Why learn the fundamentals
Frameworks and the cloud hide a lot today, yet the root cause of a problem often sits in a lower layer. Knowing how computers and networks work helps you narrow down performance problems and outages. The fundamentals do not follow trends, so what you learn stays useful for a long time.
1. How computers and programs work
Why Computers Work, 2nd Edition
It traces how a computer works, from hardware up to software. Read it together with Why Programs Work, the next book. I cover it in the review.
Why Programs Work, 3rd Edition
It covers the basics of how programs run, including the CPU and memory. You pick up on your own what a computer science course would teach. See the review.
Computer Science Distilled
A good book for getting the big picture of computer science. Use it as a map to decide which area to study next. I wrote it up in the review.
2. The OS and the Unix mindset
Understanding the Linux Kernel through Illustrations
It explains how the Linux kernel works with diagrams that beginners can follow. It makes a good entry point into the kernel. I cover it in the review.
The Unix Philosophy
It condenses the ideas and philosophy of Unix into about 150 pages. Its timeless principles apply to design in general, and you will want to reread it when you face a design problem. See the review.
3. Networking basics
Mastering TCP/IP: Introduction, 6th Edition
An introduction to networking that starts from TCP/IP basics, with clear analogies. It reads well even if networking feels intimidating. I wrote it up in the review.
Why Networks Connect, 2nd Edition
It covers how networks connect, from TCP/IP through LANs and fiber optics. It targets beginners but packs in a lot, so it flows better after you know the basics. I cover it in the review.
Practical Email Technology Handbook
It covers email from the basic mechanics through protocols, sender domain authentication, and security. Few resources teach email technology as a whole, so it earns its place on the desk. See the review.
Wrap-up
Build a foundation with Why Computers Work and Why Programs Work, and check the big picture with Computer Science Distilled. For networking, Mastering TCP/IP: Introduction is the easiest way in. Every book has a full review here, so start with whichever one interests you most.
