WiMAX - Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access

Introduction

An acronym for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, WiMAX refers to broadband wireless networks that are based on the IEEE 802.16 standard, a working group number 16 of IEEE 802, which ensures compatibility and interoperability between broadband wireless access equipment. WiMAX is primarily aimed at making broadband network access widely available without the expense of stringing wires (as in cable-access broadband) or the distance limitations of Digital Subscriber Line.

WiMax has been designed for Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) with connectivity at a speeds of up to 75 Mb/sec, transmit signal up to 30 miles for fixed station, and 3-10 miles for mobile station. WiMAX can be used for a number of applications, including "last mile" broadband connections, hotspot and cellular backhaul, and high-speed enterprise connectivity for businesses.

As WiMax can support data ranges across miles, it is well suited for a country with poor telecommunication infrastructure and last mile access is expensive. This ability lets ISPs player s offer broadband access directly to homes without worrying about the problems of installing the last mile through optic fibre or cables. WiMax is also enables telecommunication companies to serve customers in rural areas without spending billions installing expensive infrastructure for minimal returns.

The Advantages of WiMAX

WiMAX standard relies mainly on 2 to 11 GHz bands, as opposed to the 2.4 GHz band used by WiFi.
The specifications of WiMAX allow longer reach, no reliance on Line-of-Sight, greater bandwith, and better encryption.
can be used in both Line-of-Sight (LOS), for back-haul applications (up to 30 miles under ideal conditions), and non-LOS network access applications.
can span many miles and cover wide areas making it suitable for entire cities and allows development of Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) as oppose to Local Area Networks for Wi-Fi.
has a higher speed than Wi-Fi and, depending on bandwidth availability, may produce data transmissions of up to 70 Mbps.
can be used to connect multiple network hot spots, and provide last-mile connectivity directly to the home or business.
symmetrical in most cases providing the same throughput upstream and downstream.
since WiMAX does not use the Medium Voltage power lines for transport, the Radio Frequency Interference caused by signal transport over the Medium Voltage system in a BPL application is not an issue.
makes a very strong partner for WI-FI and can be is used as a complementary technology in the case of joining multiple existing hot spots by providing economical backhaul to areas where Wi-Fi is already in place.