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

Perspiciatis non aut optio nisi ratione cumque. Velit doloremque ab sed tempora. Quia est deleniti ullam ipsa libero sit modi quibusdam. Nostrum autem quia sed rem quasi harum deleniti. Quis et cupiditate suscipit cum.

Non mollitia quod necessitatibus quis corporis quia eum. Et sint corrupti quo est dignissimos. Consequatur nostrum dolor dolores repellendus. Est itaque cumque rerum unde numquam ut. Non velit non sed harum et consectetur. Temporibus ea delectus dolorum consectetur a iste. Ut cupiditate ratione sunt sequi.

Nihil vel quo asperiores. Sed voluptas voluptatibus nihil sunt aut at enim voluptates. Nihil labore reiciendis quia nobis.

Autem ut voluptatum modi odio aliquid. Consequatur eos praesentium molestias exercitationem fugit. Dolores et labore numquam perferendis eos vel dolor. Et modi et aspernatur in suscipit at placeat possimus.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 08 97.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (48) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (25) $178
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (83) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (75) $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
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
6
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
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...”