---
title: "Book Review: Computer Systems - A Programmers Perspective"
date: 2024-04-28
toc: false
images:
tags:
  - Reading
  - Computer Science
  - Systems
---

![Cover Photo](/images/csapp.jpg)

Computer Systems: A Programmer's Perspective (stylized as CS:APP), is a remarkable book that offers a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the basics of computer systems. I personally read the first edition, as it was more affordable to purchase, but the majority of my comments apply to all editions. The book, in my opinion, stands out for its relatively clear and concise explanations of some rather complex concepts. Some sections were less applicable to my interests (most namely the processor architecture chapter), but all felt like they could be understood by most people with some prior computer science experience. 

The book's structure is well-organized, with each chapter building on the previous one, ensuring that readers can follow along without feeling too overwhelmed with all the new bits of information. Additionally, the author's use of real-world examples and code illustrates the concepts being discussed and helps in understanding the practical implications of some approaches. This enhances the learning experience in a way that most textbooks fail to achieve. Knowledge of *nix systems and the C language is however generally required to grasp much of the connections throughout the book.

One of the book's strengths is in its emphasis on grasping the 'why' behind the 'how' in computer systems. It delves into the rationale behind various design choices and the trade-offs involved ikn making said decisions; providing readers with a better, deeper appreciation for the intricacies present in the computer systems they use day-to-day. This new-found insight is particularly beneficial for those trying to achieve a solid foundation in computer science that could be used as jumping off point for further study.

The book also excels in its decently wide coverage of both hardware and software aspects of computer systems, offering a relatively balanced view that is often lacking in other texts. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers gain a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter, without much bias towards specific hardware and approaches. The book goes into both complex instruction sets found in most desktop/server processors, as well as reduced instruction sets found on mobile and IoT platforms.

#### Pros
* Comprehensive and Accessible: The book is a veritable treasure trove of information, covering a wide range of topics.
* Practical Examples and Case Studies: The inclusion of real-world examples and case studies makes the learning process more engaging and relatable.
* Deep Insight into System Design: The book goes beyond mere explanations to delve into the 'why' behind system design choices, offering valuable insights.
* Balanced Coverage: It provides a well-rounded view of both hardware and software aspects of computer systems.

#### Cons
* Assumes Prior Knowledge: While the book is generally accessible, it may assume a certain level of prior knowledge in some areas, which could be a barrier for absolute beginners.
* Limited Depth: The book's scope is broad, which means it may not delve deeply into every subtopic within computer systems.

In conclusion, Computer Systems: A Programmer's Perspective is a good first-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of computer systems. Its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical examples, coupled with its mostly accessible writing style, makes it an invaluable resource for both students and professionals.

#### Coming Soon...
I'm presently working on part two of the homelab series, a mini-series on hacking an old router of mine, and a follow-up on the news collection tool.