Computing is undoubtedly one of the most popular branches of engineering, given the myriad applications of computers in everyday life. This review concerns the first volume of a two-volume handbook set on computing, which is currently in its third edition. The first volume deals with computer science and software engineering, and the second volume is about information systems and information technology. The two volumes are available in hardback and e-book formats. The first edition of the handbook was published in 1997 [1], the second was published in 2004 [2], and the current edition in 2014.

The first edition included chapters in the following sections: “Algorithms and Data Structures,” “Architecture,” “Artificial Intelligence and Robotics,” “Computational Science,” “Database and Information Retrieval,” “Graphics,” “Human-Computer Interaction,” “Operating Systems and Networks,” “Programming Languages,” and “Software Engineering.” The second edition revised many chapters and section headings in order to reflect the 11 subject areas of the Computing Curricula 2001. It also included many helpful appendices. A CD-ROM version of the second edition was published as well. In view of the explosive growth in computing, the third edition of the handbook was renamed and expanded to two volumes. The first volume reflects the modern classification of computer science and software engineering as described by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society (IEEE-CS) [3]. This volume includes chapters under the following headings: “Algorithms and Complexity,” “Architecture and Organization,” “Computational Science and Graphics,” “Intelligent Systems,” “Networking and Communication,” “Operating Systems,” “Programming Languages,” “Discipline of Software Engineering,” “Software Quality and Measurement,” “Software Development Management: Processes and Paradigms,” and “Software Modeling, Analysis, and Design.”

The survey papers in the handbook, which are written by international experts, offer a profound understanding of computer science and software engineering. They have been organized so that they may be read independently. The handbook is up to date and reflects the current Computing Curricula [3]. The previous editions of the handbook were well received. The third edition, which is reasonably priced despite the enormous effort that went into its preparation, will be an invaluable reference for professionals, researchers, and students.