Welcome to our book, *From ZIP to JPEG: A History of Computer Compression*. I have always been fascinated by technology and all the ways it impacts our lives. As someone in the tech industry, I have seen firsthand the power of computer compression and its vital role in our daily lives. I hope to share my knowledge and passion with you through this book.
Computer compression is a fundamental process in the world of technology. It is the art of reducing the size of a file or data without losing any essential information. Think of it like packing a suitcase – you want to fit as much as you can without making it too bulky. This concept may seem simple, but the history and evolution of computer compression is a fascinating tale full of advancements and innovations.
In this book, we will explore the various techniques, algorithms, and formats that make up computer compression. From the early days of ZIP files to the high-quality images of JPEG, we will discuss how these technologies came to be and how they have shaped our modern world. So, let's get started on this journey through the history of computer compression!