Want to learn more!

[kogo50]

I am 17 and I love technology and computers. I am learning programming and plan on doing programming for a career. I have a few programing books but I want to learn more about computers. Things like hacking, hardware, and software. When I say software I mean anything like operating systems, video games, and more. I also would like to know stuff about the internet, computer security, and networking. Does anyone know of any books, website, or anything that I can learn more from?

[brad211987]

Big question, here are a few ideas:

Computer security:
Look up OWASP, they have a lot of free information
One of my favorite books is called "Counterhack: Reloaded"

Programming:
pick a language and stick to it for a while, focus on concepts and design.

Operating Systems:
Try installing and working with other Operating Systems than what you are used to. I just installed the latest Ubuntu today, very impressive and one I'd recommend starting with if you are currently only familiar with windows.

Hardware:
Ever built a PC? May be a good place to start. You can do a really basic build quite cheap.

[kogo50]

Thank you and I have build a PC before

[cs_student]

First you need to understand the difference between a hacker and a cracker (if you don't already).

The article by E.S.R. How to become a hacker (http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/hacker-howto.html), is a great place to start.

Also, if you really want to get good, try to learn Computer Science rather than programming.

For example, an astronomer does not strive to become a great telescope user. He becomes a great telescope user by using it to focus on the actual aspects of astronomy. Programming is only a tool in the field of computer science.

I started programming when I was ~16. The thing which helped me the most were forums, mailing lists, and IRC. Look up IRC, as it can provide you with fast help by many experts (if you look in the right place). Check out the irc.freenode.net server, which hosts the majority of open source projects channels. They have a channel for just about every open source project, programming language, and topic. I even get my chemistry/physics/english homework reviewed on there!

When your starting out, try to pick things which have large communities, so you can get lots of help. Don't try to learn some niche programming language. Look for something which has a thriving community which will be able to assist you on your journey.


Best of luck,


cs_studnet

[effpeetee]

Some useful sites here.
(http://exitfegs.co.uk/Sources.html)
Frank