Resources

This was the first book I read that provided a deep understanding of the evolution of computers, explaining how they work down to the circuit level. It covers how foundational concepts like Morse code and relays were developed and built upon to create modern computers.

A comprehensive guide to modern encryption. Although it's marketed to both beginners and experts, having a solid grasp of programming and computer architecture makes the material much easier to digest. It walks you through the evolution of cryptography and the core ideas behind it, which is a far more effective way to learn than simply memorizing algorithms.

This was my first programming book, and it serves as such an excellent introduction that I consider it a must-read for beginners. It teaches the basics of programming and helps you develop a programmer's mindset—an essential skill today. It also includes hands-on projects to practice what you've learned, which is crucial when just starting out.

NeetCode is arguably the best site for learning data structures and algorithms. It features a fantastic collection of problems categorized by topic, complete with highly helpful video explanations. If you are preparing for coding interviews or studying for exams, this is the resource I highly recommend.

Computer, Enhance is a phenomenal resource for exploring low-level programming and computer architecture. It functions almost like an intermediate-level course focused on x86 assembly and C. You should have a solid understanding of at least Python or Go before diving into this material.

Boot.dev is the best resource I've found for backend development. It guides you through the process of building large projects while teaching necessary backend concepts along the way. It covers web development, databases, and even some DevOps topics, and features a great community where you can ask questions and get help.

Low Level Academy is an excellent resource for learning about low-level programming and computer architecture, offering in-depth articles and tutorials that explain how computers function at a fundamental level.

While some might view Interview Ready purely as interview preparation, it's actually a fantastic resource for general learning—especially its system design course. It provides a well-organized collection of topics with very helpful video explanations, making it highly recommended for exam study and interview prep alike.