Welcome to Unboxing Software
Your plain English guide to understanding how high-tech and software really work.
Why this site exists
After three decades in the software industry, I am preparing for early retirement. Over the course of my career, I've worn many hats from Software Engineer and Startup Founder to VP of Research and Development, Chief Software Architect, and Chief Technology Officer.
Having gained a lot of knowledge and experience, I wish to pass it on. Thinking about who my audience might be, it occurred to me that with the rapid rise of AI transforming everyday life, technology can easily feel overwhelming and confusing. I decided to take on the challenge of demystifying it all.
Through a series of plain English articles here on UnboxingSoftware.com and visual breakdowns on my companion YouTube channel (opens in a new tab), I explain software engineering in simple, accessible language.
You don't need to be a programmer, engineer, or technical expert.
The articles start from the very basics, what software engineering is all about, what programming languages are and continue to more advanced concepts like distributed systems and, yes, Generative AI. If you start from the Basics section, soon enough you'll be speaking "techy" like a pro.
This site and its articles won't teach you how to program software or design software systems; they'll give you an understanding of what this whole High-Tech world is about.
Article Tracks
Pick a track based on how deep you want to go — each one builds on the last, but you're welcome to jump around.
Basics
Core building blocks and foundational terminology.
Browse Basics articles → Track 2Intermediate
How components connect and function together.
Browse Intermediate articles → Track 3Advanced
Modern architecture, cloud platforms, and Generative AI.
Browse Advanced articles →At the end of every article, you'll find a direct link to the next topic as well as the accompanying YouTube video for a visual walkthrough.