Book · 1998 · Computers
How the Internet Works
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That said over the years and to this day some of my favorite tech books even though they're increasingly outdated are this brilliantly colorful picturesque easy to understand and accessible book called how computers work which we used in that course I first taught in 1999 and how the internet works.
Why people recommend it
How the Internet Works by Preston Gralla is an accessible, visually driven technology book that explains the fundamental infrastructure and mechanisms of the global network to general readers. The book was highlighted on The Peterman Pod in May 2026 by Harvard professor David J. Malan while discussing his longstanding approach to computer science education. Recalling the curriculum of the introductory course he first taught in 1999, Malan grouped this volume alongside How Computers Work as part of a series of vibrant, picturesque, and easy-to-understand texts that served as favorites over the years. Although acknowledging that these works have become increasingly outdated, Malan praised their historical utility in making technical subjects approachable for students. His reflections underscored the vital role that clear, visually aided educational materials played in shaping foundational tech education during the turn of the century. By bringing up the title in the context of his teaching philosophy, Malan demonstrated how thoughtfully designed introductory books could effectively demystify complex networking concepts for learners taking their very first steps into the digital world.
Every mention
David J Malan That said over the years and to this day some of my favorite tech books even though they're increasingly ou… 1
“That said over the years and to this day some of my favorite tech books even though they're increasingly outdated are this brilliantly colorful picturesque easy to understand and accessible book called how computers work which we used in that course I first taught in 1999 and how the internet works”
