Comparative analysis of Wi-Fi and WiMAX

Wireless networking provides an alternative answer for the problem of accessing information from the remote areas where the wired networks are not possible due to high cost. It has simply changed the way in which people can communicate and share information, without worrying about the location or distance. Two such popular wireless broadband networks are Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX). Wi-Fi is for Wireless Local Area Network with the standard IEEE802.11 and WiMAX is for Wireless Metropolitan Area Network with the standard IEEE 802.16. These technologies aim to provide broadband wireless access to residential areas and small business enterprises, in addition to providing internet access in countries without any wired network infrastructure. This paper provides an overview of Wi-Fi and WiMAX technologies including the features, specifications, architecture, advantages, limitations and security. Finally a comparison is made between Wi-Fi and WiMAX. It is suggested that when Wi-Fi is synergized with WiMAX, it will provide the best solution for last mile coverage.