Wi-MAX

WiMax or Wireless Interoperability for Microwave Access, is an IEEE 802.16 based standard for Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (WMANs). IEEE 802.16 is working group number 16 of IEEE 802, specializing in point-to-multipoint broadband wireless access. WiMax is supported by the industry itself, including Intel, Dell, Motorola, Fujitsu, AT&T, British Telecom, France Telecom, Reliance Infocomm, Siemens, Sify, Pricewatehouse Coopers and Tata Teleservices – forming an alliance called WiMax Forum. It represents the next generation of wireless networking.

The WiMax protocol is a standard that brings networking capable computing devices together. Eg. To provide internet/intranet access in a way similar to WiFi. While the range of WiFi is limited up to 150 feet, WiMax can transmit data up to a distance of 48km. It also offers better connecting speeds as compared to other protocols. It can connect at a maximum speed of 70Mbps. WiMax is not designed to clash with WiFi, but to coexist with it. WiMax coverage is measured in square kilometers, while that of WiFi is measured in square meters. The original WiMax standard (IEEE 802.16) proposes the usage of 10-66 GHz frequency spectrum for the WiMax transmission, which is well above the WiFi range (up to 5GHz maximum). But 802.16a added support for 2-11 GHz frequency also. One WiMax base station can be accessed by more than 60 users. WiMax can also provide broadcasting services also.

WiMax specifications also provides much better facilities than WiFi, providing higher bandwidth and high data security by the use of enhanced encryption schemes. WiMax can also provide service in both Line Of Sight (LOS) and Non-Line Of Sight (NLOS) locations, but the range will vary accordingly. WiMax will allow the interpenetration for broadband service provision of VoIP, video, and internet access – simultaneously. WiMax can also work with existing mobile networks. WiMax antennas can "share" a cell tower without compromising the function of cellular arrays already in place. Hence diversification of services can be accomplished easily. Since WiMax supports several communication protocols, this network can act as the backbone both for an ISP and telecom service provider. WiMax has been praised as the solution for the last-mile connectivity problem, in both rural and urban areas.