Charles Petzold is an American programmer and technical author known for his authoritative books on Microsoft Windows applications. Born on February 2, 1953, he has been a significant figure in programming literature, particularly for Windows-based operating systems.

Petzold's contributions to the field have earned him the title of a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional and he was named one of Microsoft's seven Windows Pioneers.

Among his notable works is the classic Programming Windows, which is in its sixth edition and remains one of the most renowned programming books ever. He is also the author of the widely acclaimed Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software, along with more than a dozen other books.