Explore the expansive world of information technology (IT) with this innovative book that will engage as it educates. The purpose of Information Technology in Theory is threefold: to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of cutting-edge information technologies, to identify and discuss the fundamental principles underlying these technologies, and to investigate the reciprocal relationship between these technologies and society. Unlike other books on the market that focus exclusively on either the non-technical, business aspects of IT or the technical, computer-focused aspects, this book presents technical information along with discussions of how this information plays a role in everyday business, economic, and social life. Using state-of-the-art technologies and real-world examples, coverage includes the fundamental principles of how computers work, the mathematical and physical properties underlying digital multimedia creation, networking technologies, and key social issues in network security. With this breadth of knowledge, readers will acquire a valuable framework for formulating their own opinions about the important issues that today's IT environment raises.