This document provides an introduction and overview of AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML). It defines AJAX as a methodology for building interactive web applications using a combination of technologies including XHTML, CSS, DOM, XML, JavaScript, and HTTP. The document outlines the history of AJAX and how it enables asynchronous communication with servers. It also discusses key AJAX components, the process cycle, advantages like improved interactivity, and disadvantages like compatibility issues. Examples of AJAX in use are given, like Google Suggest, and the XMLHttpRequest object is explained as the enabling technology behind asynchronous HTTP requests in AJAX applications.