So why do we call it a computer? What's in the box? We take you under the cover. Putting it together - how does a computer work? Breakthroughs in the history of the microprocessor. Operating Systems - what are they, and what are the different types? From the makers of Eniac to IBM, who are the giants of hardware? Programming languages, how do they work? Communication: how we talk to each other. Networks, a quick history, then onto today's key networks. Get the low down on LANS. Then on to the biggest network of all, the Internet. Find out more about portable devices, mobiles and PDAs. Simon Singh on the science of secrecy. Intrigued by cyptography? Have a go at encrypting a word. How software has changed how we work. From programs to e-commerce, what computers can do for you. Why interface design is key. Finkelstein enquires upon everything. Check out the Open University's TV shorts, Digital Being. They're everywhere! Computers that is! So what are the social, political and ethical dimensions of ICT? Take a journey through our site and explore the possibilities! Our timeline takes you through the history of ICT. Fancy some study? Or join our book club for educated reading! Our comprehensive links section takes you beyond this site. Key terms for key times, check out our glossary. Check out our reading list. Or why don't you give us some feedback?