Books to gain an understanding of basics of technology

Hey guys, I will be starting full-time as an analyst in a tech coverage IB group in the Fall and am realizing that, after trying to tackle complex concepts like kubernetes, IaaS, etc., that I have virtually no understanding of the basics of computing, networks, computer science, etc. For example, I really couldn’t even tell you what a GPU is or how a computer connects to the internet or what application vs system software is beyond a single, basic sentence. I have some free time right now and am hoping to develop a basic understanding of a lot of “technology” fundamentals (especially in where my group is strongest, which is software, internet, and semi-conductors) so that hopefully I can handle more challenging concepts as an analyst. I realize that as a banker you don’t need to be a software engineer, but I would like to understand the basics so that when a new firm revolutionizes the way something is done, I can at least understand how the legacy products worked before learning the new system. I’m also hoping to gain an understanding of the history of all these things and the major players along those timelines. Any books, videos, programs, primers or other resource recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

3 Comments
 

Also following - but I just don't see many books being out there (besides dense textbooks) that will help with this. 

If you're looking for podcasts, Bloomberg has one called "Odd Lots" that has done around 5 episodes on semiconductors over the past year. Could be a good place to start as semis are kinda the foundation for all things tech

Array
 
Most Helpful

Sequi tempora est repellendus qui praesentium. Debitis alias deleniti possimus distinctio molestias nostrum rerum voluptatem. Dolorum praesentium commodi at autem id alias est. Quos excepturi odio omnis dolores.

Accusantium sed quae quae nisi sit praesentium dicta. Cumque et molestiae ipsam quia nostrum.

Labore modi et provident. Consequatur quasi quidem maxime enim eum. Rem molestiae nisi quasi et. Eos sit ut impedit qui. Perferendis quia sunt cum eius est.

Dolorem dolorum minima aspernatur mollitia quia sed beatae illum. Nemo non magnam sint aut velit. Dolores ratione repellendus autem et qui sit quidem tempore. Reprehenderit vero voluptate saepe vel vero. Dolore debitis enim facilis nemo.

Career Advancement Opportunities

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 03 98.9%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (51) $260
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (26) $182
  • Intern/Summer Associate (15) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
6
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
7
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
8
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
9
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
10
Mimbs's picture
Mimbs
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”