This handbook provides basic principles and definitions, details advances in technology, outlines implementation techniques, and discusses the challenges faced by communications and networking specialists. The 30 papers address such topics as services on broadband networks, signal processing and coding schemes, mobile and wireless networks, DSL technologies, digital video and multimedia, regulations and standards. The mix of policy makers, regulators, manufacturers, operating companies and academia offers a balanced picture of the current operating environment and emerging technologies against the historical background of the telecommunications industry.