Touted as the next generation of Point-to-Multipoint systems for fixed wireless broadband, WiMAX is an exciting new development in this industry. With the support of IT industry stalwarts like Intel, WiMAX has become the object of esteem for Wireless Service Providers.
Founded on Point-to-Multipoint (PTM) network principles, WiMAX allows for data communications between 1 POP and multiple end-user radios. Pre-WiMAX and proprietary PTM equipment has been available in the market for quite a few years.
WiMAX itself is not as much a technology advancement as it is a technology standard. The biggest drawback to PTM networking for years was a lack of interoperability between systems and equipment from different manufacturers. This created a large barrier to entry and risk that most service providers were unwilling to accept. With the creation of the WiMAX standard, IEEE 802.16, service providers finally have a non-proprietary technology from multiple manufacturers for reliable, secure, and scalable network edge solution.
WiMAX allows wireless service providers a cost effective means to provide multiple links capable of 1-15m of throughput off of a single WiMAX base station with carrier-grade quality. Similar to a Central Office in traditional telecommunications, WiMAX base stations serve as an aggregation point of network edge links for switching, routing, and authentication.
Teamed with PTP equipment to backhaul traffic between WiMAX Base Stations, Wireless Metro Area Networks create a viable alternative to traditional telecommunications networks.
