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Brian W. Kernighan

Understanding the Digital World: What You Need to Know about Computers, the Internet, Privacy, and Security

Understanding the Digital World: What You Need to Know about Computers, the Internet, Privacy, and Security

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The updated edition of Brian Kernighan's popular introductory textbook explores how computer hardware, software, and networks work, and how they affect security, privacy, property, and other important social, political, and economic issues. It includes color illustrations, notes on sources for further exploration, and a glossary explaining technical terms and buzzwords.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press


Computers are omnipresent in our lives, present in various forms such as laptops, tablets, cell phones, and smartwatches. However, the majority of computers are inconspicuous, hidden within appliances, cars, medical equipment, transportation systems, power grids, and weapons. These unseen computers silently collect, share, and sometimes leak personal data about us. Governments and corporations increasingly employ computers to monitor our activities. Social networks and advertisers possess extensive knowledge about us, which may be uncomfortable. Criminals have easy access to our data, posing significant security risks.

Do we truly grasp the immense power of computers in our world? In this revised edition of Understanding the Digital World, Brian Kernighan delves into the intricate workings of computer hardware, software, and networks. The book covers topics such as the construction and computation of computers, programming, the functioning of the Internet and web, and their impact on security, privacy, property, and various social, political, and economic issues. Kernighan also explores fundamental concepts from computer science and discusses the inherent limitations of computers. Additionally, new sections have been added to cover Python programming, big data, machine learning, and other emerging technologies.

Numerous color illustrations, notes on sources for further exploration, and a comprehensive glossary that defines technical terms and popular buzzwords are included to enhance the reader's understanding. Understanding the Digital World is an essential read for individuals from all backgrounds who seek to deepen their knowledge about computers and communications.

Weight: 840g
Dimension: 177 x 253 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691219103

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