The first chapter contains definitions of the main concepts in this book: instrumentation and control (I&C) system, individual and overall I&C system, central part of the I&C system and peripheral equipment, software-hardware complex (SHC), commercial of the shelf products (COTS), platforms (equipment family), functional safety. Differences between the SHC and I&C systems are explained. General information about I&C systems, based on the use facilities for obtaining, transfer, processing, and display of data, is provided. The main peculiarities of I&C systems, which are described in more detail in further chapters of this book, are considered. Information about functional safety of NPP I&C systems is described. A brief description of general aspects of cyber security of NPP I&C systems is given.