The Next Generation Wireless Technology: WiMax Broadband

WiMax, which stands for ‘Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access’, is a wireless digital communications system that provides users with a fully mobile Internet connectivity over a wide area. The WiMax broadband is similar to 802.11 and Wi-Fi networks which covers over a location. However the former can provide wide wireless Internet access of up to 10 to 30 miles, while the latter can only cover of up to 100 meters away. Basically, WiMax is a next generation Wi-Fi on steroids.

The WiMax broadband, or sometimes referred to as IEEE 802.16, is intended for mobile Internet connectivity over a large location and across cities and countries. Communications providers use it as an alternative to cable DSL for ‘last mile’ access. Also, it can support the ‘triple-play’ services – data communications, VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) and IPTV (Internet protocol television). The current WiMax technology can provide speeds of up to 40Mbps. It is now being developed as a possible replacement for GSM and CDMA, which are cellphone technologies. It is also being considered as an intermediate link for 2G, 3G and 4G networks currently used by most nations. Through a WiMax tower situated in an urban area, it can cover many kilometers around.

This next generation of wireless technology can also provide mobile Internet access, over a wide area, to wireless devices such as laptops, smart-phones, gaming devices, cameras, camcorders, music players and many more. It is not anymore restricted, like the Wi-Fi where one needs to be in a hot spot.  However, it is only available for devices that can support WiMax connection.

The WiMax broadband will certain change everyone’s Internet lifestyle.

One can ask for directions and movie schedules online anytime; and play a multi-player online game or watch streaming movies in the park. Or a person in the beach can even chat and call someone on the other side of the globe. It is a fast and reliable Internet access, anywhere within the coverage area. No more searching for hot spots. It is also no doubt, that in the near future the WiMax will replace the cable DSL, 802.11 and Wi-Fi networks.