Data
Why Binary Uses Two States to Represent Information
Why binary uses two states becomes clear when you compare number bases, switches and symbol codes, and see how long…
The archive
All explanations
Explore The Bit Stream's explanations of data, networks, the web, storage and computing. Each piece begins with the underlying idea and works through it at a reader-friendly pace.
Storage
A File Extension Is a Clue, Not the Whole Format
A file extension is a clue, not the whole format: learn what the name reveals, what the contents can confirm, and how…
Networks
From Packet to Destination: The Journey of a Message Online
Packet to destination: follow how a message is divided, addressed, routed and reassembled, and see what each part can…
Web
The Browser Bar Is Not the Web Address Itself
Understand the browser bar, web address and page they point to, so you can diagnose missing pages, confusing search…
Computing
A First Look at a Plain-Text File
A plain-text file is easier to read when you know what to open it with, what its marks mean and how to inspect it…