The encyclopedia is a massive offering that explains the gamut of current multimedia and networking efforts. It encompasses papers that go into numerous topics. Like social networking communities; a recent hot item on the Web. Or the continued rise of malware attacks, like viruses and worms and phishing.

There is a good balance between discussing hardware improvements and higher level software applications and usages. In some ways, the "multimedia" in the title is unduly restrictive. It is the "networking" which conveys the broader scope of the book.

The book also tries to look forward. Several authors offer their ideas as to future trends. It's a tossup how these might turn out. But overall, the book conveys the dynamic, freewheeling spirit of the Internet.