Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access

Abstract

WiMax (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is the next step on the path to a wireless world, extending broadband wireless access to new areas and over farther distances, as well as considerably reducing the expenditure of deploying broadband to new locations. WiMax is a wireless digital communications system, also known as IEEE 802.16 that is intended for wireless "metropolitan area networks". WiMax can provide broadband wireless access (BWA) up to 30 miles (50 km) for fixed stations, and 3- 10 miles (5 -15 km) for mobile stations. In contrast, the Wi-Fi/802.11 wireless local area network standard is limited in most cases to only 100 -300 feet (30 - 100m). WiMax is the industry term for a long-range networking standard. WiMax technology has potential to deliver the high-speed Internet access to rural areas and other locations not serviced by cable or DSL technology. WiMax offers an alternative to satellite Internet services