The necessity of promoting interoperability of the standard IEEE 802.16 alternatively known as Wireless MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) gave birth to the WiMax Forum in April, 2001. The gift of this Forum to the world of technology was the concept of Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, popularly known as WiMax, aimed at regulating wireless broadband access.

The main function of this Forum is to certify interoperability of BWA products. Four categories of certificates namely, "ready," "compliant," "pre," and "not" are issued based on the compatibility of the product with the new technology.

Over the next five years WiMax is expected to gain a dominant position in the world of Internet access. It is an exciting next generation technology that aims at improving speed and throughput and at extending the coverage capacity of existing networks. It has significant platform independence and adaptability and can be applied to multiple divergent applications. In that regard, WiMax qualifies as "the next big thing," the kind of Holy Grail of access for which Internet pundits have long been searching and, if properly implemented, will move the world a significant step closer toward universal Internet connectivity.

The potential advantages of the system are gradually becoming apparent to providers not only in the United States but all over the world. While major wireless broadband providers in the market are still discussing ways to adopt the system, some Asian countries like China, Korea, and India are discussing moving forward with WiMax as an alternative to cable and DSL.

The Evolving IEEE 802.16 Standard

Until recently the IEEE 802.16 standard was the IEEE Std 802.16-1004. From December 2005 onwards it has been modified to 802.16e. The earlier standard addressed only fixed systems. The new standard effectively addresses mobile systems and allows fixed wireless and mobile non-line of site applications as well as addressing the multiple access conflicts present in the earlier version.

The Myth of Last Mile Connectivity

Most service providers are working vigorously on solutions for the tail-end user on the communication chain. This is popularly known as "last mile connectivity." The obvious result is better price points both for home and business access with the added advantage of connectivity without the necessity of a physical cable or telephone line if the user is located within the available WiMax range.

Continue to: What are the Technical Reasons to Use Wimax

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The Basics of Evolving WiMax Network

The Evolving IEEE 802.16 Standard

The Myth of Last Mile Connectivity

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