erm, what does that info tab in the multiplayer screen mean ?

Hmmm the Wiki is down, but I'll try from memory....

Basically they are to tell you what the server has enabled....

V = Vote (To vote kick, ban, etc)
Q = Qualify is enabled
S = Select (To select track)
M = Midrace Join enabled

I think there is a P also? For Pitstop required.

I think "P" is for Private.. That means the server has a password, so you need to know it in order to enter the server..

hm makes sense p for private since version q u'll be noticed for pitting
thx a lot

P is for private,
p is for pitting

Another one - R, is for server on Insim Relay