Book excerpt: Data compression is one of the most important fields and tools in modern computing. From archiving data, to CD-ROMs, and from coding theory to image analysis, many facets of modern computing rely upon data compression. This book provides a comprehensive reference for the many different types and methods of compression. Included are a detailed and helpful taxonomy, analysis of most common methods, and discussions on the use and comparative benefits of methods and description of "how to" use them. Detailed descriptions and explanations of the most well-known and frequently used compression methods are covered in a self-contained fashion, with an accessible style and technical level for specialists and non-specialists.