The methods are benchmarked against well-known metaheutistics like Genetic Algorithms, Tabu Search, heterogeneous GAs, Estimation of Distribution Algorithms, etc. Also, a publicly available software tool is offered to reduce the learning curve in applying these techniques. The three final chapters will use the classic problem of "vehicle routing" and the hot topics of "ad-hoc mobile networks" and "DNA genome sequencing" to clearly illustrate and demonstrate the power and utility of these algorithms.