Understand how to make wireless communication networks, digital storage systems and computer networks robust and reliable in the first unified, comprehensive treatment of erasure correcting codes. Data loss is unavoidable in modern computer networks; as such, data recovery can be crucial and these codes can play a central role. Through a focused, detailed approach, you will gain a solid understanding of the theory and the practical knowledge to analyze, design and implement erasure codes for future computer networks and digital storage systems. Starting with essential concepts from algebra and classical coding theory, the book provides specific code descriptions and efficient design methods, with practical applications and advanced techniques stemming from cutting-edge research. This is an accessible and self-contained reference, invaluable to both theorists and practitioners in electrical engineering, computer science and mathematics.