For the past few years, Wi-Fi has offered an alternative to cable internet service, but it covers a relatively small area. WiMAX, the new wireless broadband connection, allows for a much larger coverage area. Many large cell phone service providers have invested in this technology with hopes to offer it in their networks. WiMAX can be transmitted at speeds as fast as 75 mbps. Wireless G only transmits at 54mbps. There are two types of WiMAX-fixed and mobile. Fixed WiMAX is designed for homes and businesses and transmits from point to point. Mobile WiMAX allows wireless connections over larger areas. Mobile WiMAX is what many ISPs and other providers will use. Wi-Fi and WiMAX: The Differences WiMAX opens up many opportunities not available with Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi signals typically transmit a few hundred feet depending on if there is anything blocking the signal. WiMAX signals are able to transmit as far as 30 miles. WiMAX allows providers a viable option to offer broadband internet throughout their networks. WiMAX features: WiMAX allows ISPs to connect customers in remote locations without having to run new cables, thus limiting the cost of extending their networks. You can connect to a WiMAX network without having to be near a hot spot. WiMAX does not operate on a line of site transmission which allows you to connect without facing the network transmitter. Businesses can use WiMAX to offer high speed wireless connections around their workplaces. However, Wi-Fi will most likely continue to be the network of choice for home users since the cost of setting up a WiMAX network is unrealistic for most home users. WiMAX is still in development and it will most likely take years before WiMAX connections are available internationally, but the technology looks quite promising for the future.