7 Best-Selling Information Technology Books Millions Love

Discover top Information Technology books recommended by Nicholas C. Zakas, Jon Postel, and other experts that deliver proven, best-selling strategies.

Nicholas C. Zakas
Updated on June 27, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially in Information Technology where proven knowledge shapes the future. Understanding IT today means grappling with security, networking, and operational excellence — areas where validated approaches have helped millions succeed. These best-selling books, recommended by leaders like Nicholas C. Zakas and Jon Postel, offer precisely that: grounded expertise that aligns with wide reader approval.

Nicholas C. Zakas, creator of ESLint and a respected software developer, champions "The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition" for its blend of practical skills and the underlying theory that helped him master Linux deeply. Jon Postel, famed RFC Editor and architect of the internet, calls "Internetworking with TCP/IP Vol. I" the classic introduction to TCP/IP, reflecting his pioneering work in internet protocols. Their endorsements anchor this collection in real-world impact and expert credibility.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Information Technology needs might consider creating a personalized Information Technology book that combines these validated approaches. This way, you get the best of established wisdom and customized guidance for your unique goals.

Best for Linux command line beginners
Nicholas C. Zakas, a respected software developer and creator of ESLint, recommends this book as the perfect resource for Linux newcomers eager to advance. He highlights how it not only covers command line utilities but also explores the underlying theory connecting them, reflecting his own experience learning to navigate Linux systems more deeply. His endorsement aligns with widespread appreciation for the book’s clear guidance and thoughtful approach, making it an excellent option if you want to gain a strong foundation in Linux command line skills.
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Recommended by Nicholas C. Zakas

Creator of ESLint, software developer

This is exactly what a Linux beginner needs to get up to speed quickly. The book goes beyond simply walking through all of the command line utilities, and ventures into the realm of theory and how things work together. (from Amazon)

William Shotts draws on over three decades in software and two decades deeply immersed in Linux to craft this accessible guide to the Linux command line. You’ll move beyond point-and-click interfaces to master file management, system administration, and shell scripting with Bash, gaining fluency in essential commands like grep, sed, and Vi editing. The book also unpacks the philosophy and Unix heritage underpinning Linux, offering insights into why the command line remains a powerful tool. If you want to develop practical skills that let you control your Linux environment confidently, this book is a solid choice, especially if you’re new to the command line but eager to grow beyond basics.

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Best for TCP/IP networking fundamentals
Jon Postel, RFC Editor and former Deputy Internet Architect, highlights this book as "THE classic text for an introduction to TCP/IP." His expertise in internet architecture lends weight to this recommendation. Postel's endorsement reflects how this text shaped his understanding during critical phases of internet development, making it a foundational read if you want to deepen your grasp of networking protocols and TCP/IP principles.

Recommended by Jon Postel

RFC Editor and former Deputy Internet Architect

THE classic text for an introduction to TCP/IP. (from Amazon)

Douglas E. Comer's deep involvement with the Internet project since the late 1970s and his role as inaugural VP of Research at Cisco Systems give this book a foundation few can match. You'll explore the latest IPng developments, security considerations in TCP/IP environments, and detailed explanations of bridges, routers, and routing architectures for networks of all sizes. The book clarifies TCP transport services with rigor, making it ideal for those seeking to understand the technical underpinnings, not just surface-level concepts. If you want to grasp how modern TCP/IP networks operate and are structured, this volume offers solid, authoritative guidance without unnecessary complexity.

Published by Prentice Hall
Author is Internet Hall of Fame member
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Best for personal IT mastery plans
This AI-created book on Information Technology is tailored to your skill level and specific interests. By sharing your background and goals, you receive a book that focuses exactly on the IT topics you want to explore, from foundational concepts to advanced techniques. Personalization matters here because IT covers broad and complex areas—this book narrows the field to what’s most relevant for you, making learning more engaging and effective. It’s like having a guide who understands exactly where you are and where you want to go in IT.
2025·50-300 pages·Information Technology, System Administration, Networking Basics, Cybersecurity Essentials, Cloud Computing

This tailored book explores practical methods and expert approaches in Information Technology, crafted to match your background and goals. It covers essential IT concepts such as system administration, networking, security, and cloud computing, while diving into personalized topics you want to focus on. By combining widely validated knowledge with your specific interests, the book reveals insights that millions of readers have found valuable, helping you navigate the complex IT landscape with clarity. This personalized guide emphasizes learning efficiency by focusing on your unique goals, ensuring that every chapter you read advances your skills and understanding in ways that truly matter to you. It’s a custom path through IT mastery designed just for you.

Tailored Guide
IT Mastery Insights
1,000+ Happy Readers
Mike Chapple, PhD, CISSP, is a teaching professor at the University of Notre Dame with over 25 years of cybersecurity experience. Alongside co-authors James Michael Stewart and Darril Gibson, both seasoned educators and prolific authors in security certifications, he crafted this guide to help you confidently navigate and pass the updated CISSP exam. Their combined expertise and wide recognition in the field give this book a strong foundation for those seeking to advance in cybersecurity careers.
(ISC)2 CISSP Certified Information Systems Security Professional Official Study Guide (Sybex Study Guide) book cover

by Mike Chapple, James Michael Stewart, Darril Gibson··You?

2021·1248 pages·Cyber Security, Information Technology, Security Certifications, Exam Preparation, Risk Management

Mike Chapple, James Michael Stewart, and Darril Gibson bring decades of cybersecurity expertise to this authoritative guide for CISSP certification. You’ll explore detailed coverage of all 2021 exam domains, including security risk management, network security, identity access, and software development security, supported by over 900 practice questions and interactive learning tools. The authors’ combined experience in teaching millions of students shapes clear explanations and practical exam preparation strategies, such as audio reviews and electronic flashcards. This book suits those committed to earning CISSP certification and building a solid foundation in information security principles.

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Best for IT leaders adopting DevOps
Aruna Ravichandran, Vice President of DevOps Product Marketing at CA Technologies, brings over two decades of experience in IT operations, continuous delivery, and security to this book. Recognized among Silicon Valley's top influential women, she draws on her leadership in marketing and engineering across major tech companies to guide you through modern DevOps strategies. Her expertise supports the book’s focus on transforming IT organizations by bridging development and operations, helping you understand how to implement effective DevOps programs tailored to your business needs.
2016·188 pages·Devops, Information Technology, Software Development, Continuous Delivery, Agile Practices

What if everything you knew about software development was challenged by the need to integrate development and operations seamlessly? Aruna Ravichandran and her co-authors, leveraging their extensive leadership roles at CA Technologies, walk you through building a DevOps-enabled software factory designed to accelerate software delivery while maintaining quality. You'll explore methods to remove bottlenecks like manual release processes, apply continuous delivery, and use real-time behavioral analytics to simulate production environments. This book is geared toward IT leaders tasked with transforming their organization's software pipeline, but developers, operations teams, and security professionals can also gain insights into agile practices and metrics that bridge traditional divides.

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Best for security risk management strategies
Malcolm Harkins offers a fresh perspective on information security by emphasizing its role in enabling business rather than just defending assets. This book has resonated widely by addressing the evolving risk landscape with practical strategies that integrate technical security concerns with business objectives. Its approach helps organizations manage complex threats and compliance demands while embracing innovation through emerging technologies. If your work involves shaping security policies or managing information risk, this title provides thoughtful guidance for adapting to today’s fast-changing environment.
2012·169 pages·Information Technology, Risk Management, Security Strategy, Business Alignment, Regulatory Compliance

Malcolm Harkins draws on his extensive experience as a security executive to challenge the traditional view of information security as merely a defensive measure. Instead, he shifts focus toward enabling business growth while managing risks in an increasingly complex technological landscape. You'll find discussions on integrating security with business priorities, understanding emerging threats, and leveraging new technologies like social media and IoT responsibly. Chapters explore frameworks for balancing privacy, regulatory demands, and risk tolerance, making this especially useful if you navigate security strategy in dynamic enterprise environments.

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Best for rapid skill acquisition
This AI-created book on IT skills is designed based on your background and specific goals within the IT field. You provide information about your current knowledge level and which IT topics you want to focus on, and the book is crafted to cover exactly what you need to fast-track your learning. Personalizing your learning journey this way helps you avoid irrelevant content and concentrate on practical knowledge that matches your professional aims and interests.
2025·50-300 pages·Information Technology, Networking Basics, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, Cloud Computing, Automation Tools

This personalized IT learning book offers a focused 30-day plan tailored to your professional background, current skill level, and specific interests within Information Technology. It explores core concepts ranging from networking fundamentals and cybersecurity essentials to cloud services and automation, matching the knowledge to your goals. By concentrating on what matters most to you, this tailored guide reveals practical, reader-validated knowledge that accelerates skill acquisition efficiently. The book combines widely recognized IT principles with your unique preferences, creating an engaging learning experience that supports rapid mastery of relevant topics. It emphasizes clear explanations and real-world applications, helping you build confidence and competence in your IT career trajectory.

Tailored Guide
Accelerated Skill Building
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for advanced IT research insights
This book offers a unique glimpse into the forefront of Information Technology research through thirteen doctoral dissertations from Politecnico di Milano. Its appeal lies in presenting complex academic work in an accessible format, making it valuable for those curious about emerging trends and rigorous approaches within IT. By showcasing interdisciplinary studies that span computer science, electronics, and telecommunications, it serves as a bridge between detailed research and broader technological understanding, benefiting researchers and advanced students alike.
2021·156 pages·Information Technology, Technology, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Telecommunications

Drawing from his role at Politecnico di Milano, Angelo Geraci curates thirteen doctoral dissertations that showcase emerging research in Information Technology. You’ll explore a diverse range of topics—from systems engineering and telecommunications to computer science innovations—each chapter breaking down complex studies into accessible summaries. This collection highlights how interdisciplinary approaches drive recent advances, making it relevant for those interested in academic research trends or technological development. If you seek an overview of cutting-edge IT research framed by rigorous methods and real-world applications, this book offers a concise yet substantive resource.

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Information Systems and Technology For The Non-Information Systems Executive offers a rare resource for business leaders who need to navigate the complex world of IT without a tech background. Jae K. Shim presents a bridge between technology and business management, explaining software and hardware applications in clear, straightforward language. The book addresses how various information systems—from databases to artificial intelligence—can support core business functions like budgeting, marketing, and manufacturing. Its practical examples help demystify complex concepts, making it a valuable guide for executives and entrepreneurs aiming to harness technology for a competitive edge.
2000·296 pages·Information Technology, Management, Strategy, Decision Support, Financial Modeling

What happens when decades of practical business management intersect with emerging computer technologies? Jae K. Shim, drawing on extensive experience, offers a guide tailored for executives unfamiliar with programming yet needing to grasp information systems essentials. You’ll learn how databases, networking, and software applications in accounting, finance, marketing, and manufacturing can support decision-making and strategic planning. The book’s real-life examples, such as financial modeling and inventory optimization, make abstract IT concepts tangible for managers aiming to leverage technology without technical jargon. If you’re seeking to understand and apply IT tools to improve business outcomes, this book lays out a clear, accessible path, though it’s best suited for non-technical executives rather than IT specialists.

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Conclusion

This collection highlights several clear themes: mastering foundational knowledge like Linux commands and TCP/IP protocols, embracing security strategies validated by certifications, and understanding IT from both leadership and research perspectives. If you prefer proven methods, start with "The Linux Command Line" to build essential skills. For validated approaches, combine "Managing Risk and Information Security" with the CISSP Official Study Guide.

Executives and non-technical professionals will find "Information Systems and Technology For The Non-Information Systems Executive" a valuable bridge between technology and business. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Information Technology book to combine proven methods with your unique needs.

These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed across various IT roles and interests. Whether you're a developer, security professional, or business leader, these books offer dependable guidance grounded in expert endorsement and popular validation.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition" if you're new to IT or want to strengthen your foundational skills. It's approachable and recommended by Nicholas C. Zakas, a respected developer. From there, pick books that match your focus area, like security or networking.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Information Technology?

Not at all. For example, "The Linux Command Line" is perfect for beginners, while others like "Special Topics in Information Technology" suit advanced readers. The collection covers a range of expertise levels.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational topics like Linux commands and TCP/IP networking. Then explore security-focused titles such as the CISSP Study Guide. Finish with leadership and research books for broader context.

Do these books assume I already have experience in Information Technology?

Some books, like "Information Systems and Technology For The Non-Information Systems Executive," are designed specifically for non-technical readers. Others require some background but offer clear explanations to help you catch up.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

"Managing Risk and Information Security" offers practical strategies for integrating security with business goals, useful for IT professionals aiming to protect and enable their organizations.

Can I get tailored Information Technology knowledge that fits my specific goals?

Yes! While these expert books provide solid foundations, personalized books combine popular methods with your unique needs. Consider creating a personalized Information Technology book for targeted, efficient learning.

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