The popularity of WiFi networks (802.11b/g) has exploded in the last couple years as wireless-enabled laptops and PDAs have entered the consumer market and off-the-shelf setup boxes have become widely available.

Homeowners are installing residential WiFi networks in order to enjoy the freedom of accessing the Internet or their computer peripherals from anywhere - the home office, the living room, or the garden. In the Commercial sector, WiFi has also enabled wireless roaming from the desk to the boardroom, or remote Internet connection at the local coffee shop or golf course. WiFi is the wireless access component of integrated, 'smart' building networks.

Unfortunately WiFi range is limited to several hundred feet before another 'repeater' must be installed. The good news is WiMax. Based on a revision of the WiFi protocol, WiMax is a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) with a range of 50km and capable of providing a viable 'last mile' broadband access to homes, businesses, campus, etc.

WiMax has the potential to revolutionize the wireless industry. 'Hotspots' will no longer be limited to the coffee shop, but can encompass an entire community or city. You will be able to take your laptop from your home, to a local park, to the library and then back home again and have 'always on' Internet connectivity.

Several companies have developed WiMax products for fixed wireless (point-to- multipoint) applications while portability (stationary access) and mobility (from a moving vehicle) solutions are in development. In the near future it will be possible to roam from the home LAN, to the car, to the mall, to the office...seamlessly.