This lack of synchronization between the end of IPv4 and the global availability of IPv6 addressing at hosts and content providers will require in some parts of the world the implementation of translation, either NAT444 or NAT64. Service Providers are preparing themselves for this scenario through the deployment of "Carrier Grade NATs". The only Preface alternative to make sure that this change in the architecture of the Internet is temporary is the deployment of IPv6. That is the challenge that this book addresses and we are happy you are joining us in this effort.

This chapter introduces multimedia and multimedia elements and technology that are influencing and will continue to influence much of the exchanged data over the Internet today. It presents all the elements of multimedia with an emphasis on the basic building block of each element and how it integrates with the other elements to achieve a better multimedia content. This chapter also presents the close relation between advancements in multimedia technology and the immense use of the Internet. In addition, various popular image, audio, and video standards are presented with more emphasis on compression standards that are influencing multimedia use. Furthermore, we hope the inclusion of a section dealing with copyrights, ownership, and cross-platform issues will shed light on the challenges facing multimedia producers and owners alike. Finally, the chapter includes some of the future challenges and issues facing the research community for the advancement of multimedia uses.

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