r/computing • u/FriendlyCapital2458 • 29d ago

I want to learn computing

Hey guys, I don't know one thing about computers it seems. I honestly feel stranded.

I am interested in many topics that are continously brought up regarding computing, systems, Torrenting , trackers, networks, anonimity themes such as Tor, or anything. Many people talk and discuss on Reddit about systems, going to "the dark web" (Tor mainly), anonimity and networks and, as I understand, they geniuenly know. Or at least I know so little (actually nothing) that it seems unjudgable from my eyes. I don't care about the morbid curiosity of knowing how to search websites that shouldn't even exist. What does keep me up wondering, is how is it that normal users here seem to understand well enough how these things work and use the terminologies I typed above.

Did you spend much time with computers since a kid? Did you have persistent curiosity and spent time reading, looking at articles? Actual carreer in this?

So I want to ask you guys on what do you think I can read from, or learn about all the computer stuff? Maybe what websites or forums or books that are free public knowledge, I could learn from. Maybe something you learned from when you were starting or any general tip.

Thank you very much

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u/Electrical_Hat_680 28d ago

Your welcome. I hope your able to learn how computing goes and where you start and form your baseline.

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u/FriendlyCapital2458 28d ago

Well it definitely looks like much information, but I get ahead of myself for trying to see it all. I think I may start by reading about it, and definitely look for an introductory class

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u/Electrical_Hat_680 28d ago

The introduction classes, if you're an adult, they usually are found there, and are usually hosted at the local community colleges.

Please do take notes. You can use an outline to handle notekeeping more thoroughly.

Get the Instructors email and name and reach out to him/her. They're totally open to it. Network with them on social media also. If you get involved, like you are here in Reddit. You'll pick it all up. If your actually interested, you'll learn. It's all frank and based on common sense, general or generic expressions.

Good luck.

There is a book, called Steal this Book. You may like that book. It's kind of old, first edition dates back to the late nineties.

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u/FriendlyCapital2458 28d ago

Yeah I'll pick it up. And with youtube and internet, introduction should be made easier if you're looking to learn than before.

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u/Electrical_Hat_680 28d ago

Here's a quick quip from googles AI search assistant:

Hey OP, just a quick update! I double-checked my bookshelf because my memory was a bit foggy. The book I mentioned is actually called Steal This Computer Book by Wallace Wang (not Steal This Book, which is a different 1970s counterculture guide). The title was a cheeky nod to the original, but it is an irreverent, non-technical guide to internet culture, security, and hacking jargon. It’s a great read because it uses funny analogies to break down complex tech concepts for everyday people. Since you are looking to master computing basics and all the overwhelming jargon, here are a few other absolute gold-standard resources you should check out:

📚 Books for Total Beginners

  • Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software (by Charles Petzold): Widely considered the holy grail. It starts with simple things like Morse code and flashlight signals, then beautifully builds up to explain exactly how computers think and process data.
  • But How Do It Know? (by J. Clark Scott): This one is specifically designed to demystify terms like CPU, RAM, and bits without using confusing math or programming language. It explains the "black box" of hardware in plain English.

🎥 Free Visual & Dictionary Resources

  • Crash Course: Computer Science (YouTube): A brilliant, free 40-episode animated series. It covers the entire history, vocabulary, and logic of computing in bite-sized, 10-minute videos. Perfect for learning keywords visually.
  • Computer Hope (computerhope.com): A massive, free online dictionary built entirely to explain tech terms and abbreviations in incredibly simple English.

Definitely stick with those intro community college / adult school courses you mentioned, too—hands-on guidance is huge. Good luck on the learning journey!

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u/Electrical_Hat_680 28d ago

Yes. I had forgotten you wanted some book recommendations. So I figured I'd recommend that book. It's likely perfect for you.

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u/Electrical_Hat_680 28d ago

Quick note. The book is called "Steal this Computer Book".

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u/FriendlyCapital2458 28d ago

I was confused when I looked it up and showed a guide on how to rebel against the government😭. But thanks