1. Absolute Basics of How Computers Work
Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software by Charles Petzold Best beginner-friendly intro to binary, logic gates, memory, and CPUs.
2. Build a Computer From Scratch
nand2tetris (free course + book) You’ll build a working computer from logic gates up to an operating system and simple games.
This is the gold standard for understanding everything from logic gates → CPU → Assembly → OS.
3. Assembly Language
Programming from the Ground Up (PDF) Teaches Linux x86 assembly with C comparisons — still beginner-friendly.
Ripes CPU Simulator Drag-and-drop CPU simulator that runs RISC-V code. Great for visual learners. https://github.com/mortbopet/Ripes
4. Operating Systems Internals
Operating Systems: Three Easy Pieces Free and beautifully written, explains processes, memory, filesystems, etc.
5. Digital Logic & Hardware Design
Interactive Tools:
Logisim Evolution Build digital circuits using AND, OR, NOT gates — even CPUs.
Ben Eater’s YouTube Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLowKtXNTBypGqImE405J2565dvjafglHU This is a fantastic hands-on look at breadboarding a real CPU.
- Practice / Deeper Learning
MIT OpenCourseWare - Computer System Organization https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/6-004-computation-structures-spring-2017/
x86 Assembly Guide by Dr. Paul Carter Downloaded