Microsoft Press Computer Dictionary

With nearly half again as much material as the second edition (no date noted), the latest release of the reference includes extensive coverage of Internet, Web, and intranet-related terms and acronyms; software products from all manufacturers; terminology relating to PC, Macintosh, and UNIX; hardware; and words relating to mathematical, mainframe, networking, and programming concepts. Of particular help to newcomers are the pronunciation guides, especially identifying which acronyms to pronounce and which to spell out. Well cross-referenced and illustrated. The accompanying CD-ROM contains the text, and is searchable by (surprise) Microsoft Internet Explorer. Quarterly updates and revisions are available on the World Wide Web. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Microsoft Press Computer Dictionary defines terms and acronyms pertaining to all areas of computing, including hardware, networks, programming, applications, and databases. Unlike some dictionaries, it does not attempt to tackle companies, well-known commercial products, proprietary technologies (except some from Microsoft itself), and cyberculture. However, it does an excellent job of clarifying concepts and explaining abstruse technical terms in easy-to-understand language. This dictionary is a fine resource for either beginning or advanced computer users.