Vinge is the poet laureate of the middle Internet era, the one defined by Usenet discussions, but he makes a huge effort in Rainbows End (sic!) to update the tech templates in A Fire Upon the Deep and A Deepness in the Sky to something that could be considered modern.
Just like the concept of “identity theft” is unimaginably expanded in Charles Stross’ Glasshouse, the future internet depicted in this book is the web write large, and in many dimensions, and only fully comprehended by kids, the dullest of whom are geniuses compared to their bemused and fearful parents. New forms of warfare have developed, and the tools of terrorism and mayhem are cheaper and cheaper. Parcel delivery is by rail launchers sending packages in ballistic trajectories.
Yet Vinge is not just a soulless nerd and technocrat, he has a real gift in describing the inner lives of his characters (even if his most detailed portraits seem to be of very clever people who have dysfunctional inner lives). Coupled with a clear, uncomplicated prose and a workmanlike pacing and suspense, this makes for an entertaining read which leaves you with a lot of ideas to ponder. Highly recommended!