Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) is a wireless communications standard based on the IEEE 802.16 protocol. It was designed to provide broadband internet access across wide metropolitan areas, serving as a wireless alternative to cable and DSL. Though it saw early deployment as a 4G technology, it was largely outcompeted by LTE in the mobile carrier market.
The rural ISP deployed a WiMAX tower on the ridge to cover homes outside the DSL footprint.
Also heard as
- 802.16
Related terms
Broadband
High-speed data transmission utilizing a wide range of frequencies to carry multiple signals simultaneously.
Last mile
The final segment of a telecommunications network that physically reaches the customer premises.
Wireless internet
A broadband connection delivered over cellular radio networks rather than physical cables.