This text offers a basic understanding of telecommunications and the global information infrastructure. It provides an easy-to-understand guide that explains communications technologies in plain English. How does the Internet work? What benefits do optical networks offer? What is the potential of PCS? What is the role of satellites in the global information highway? Readers will find nontechnical answers to these questions, plus clear definitions of commonly seen, but often misunderstood, terms such as ADSL, ISDN, HFC, DVD and others. In addition, readers learn about the potential economic impact of technologies and see who the key players are in various industry segments.