Automata theory is a subject of study at the crossroads of mathematics, theoretical computer science, and applications. In its core it deals with abstract models of systems whose behaviour is based on transitions between states, and it develops methods for the description, classification, analysis, and design of such systems.

The Handbook of Automata Theory gives a comprehensive overview of current research in automata theory and is aimed at a broad readership of researchers and graduate students in mathematics and computer science.

Volume I is divided into three parts. The first part presents various types of automata: automata on words, on infinite words, on finite and infinite trees, weighted and maxplus automata, transducers, and two-dimensional models. Complexity aspects are discussed in the second part. Algebraic and topological aspects of automata theory are covered in the third part.

Volume II consists of two parts. The first part is dedicated to applications of automata in mathematics: group theory, number theory, symbolic dynamics, logic, and real functions. The second part presents a series of further applications of automata theory such as message-passing systems, symbolic methods, synthesis, timed automata, verification of higher-order programs, analysis of probabilistic processes, natural language processing, formal verification of programs and quantum computing.

The two volumes comprise a total of 39 chapters, with extensive references and individual tables of contents for each one, as well as a detailed subject index.