The IBM 5150, launched in 1981, is widely recognized as the original IBM Personal Computer (PC). It set the foundation for modern PC architecture, influencing hardware and software compatibility standards that persist today. Powered by an Intel 8088 processor and supporting up to 256KB of RAM, the IBM 5150 featured modular design, expansion slots, and the ability to run MS-DOS. Its open architecture allowed third-party hardware and software development, leading to a rapidly growing ecosystem. This openness made it a target for early malware and hacking attempts, highlighting the need for cybersecurity measures. The IBM 5150’s legacy endures in the design principles and security challenges of contemporary computing.