WiMAX was originally designed as a broadband radio access technology. It can provide high-bandwidth radio links either between subscribers and a base station or as a fixed radio link. In either case, ranges may be as high as several tens of kilometres with appropriate radio network design considerations applied. In this context it can be used to provide a cost-effective broadband radio access solution to fixed subscribers. This is particularly applicable where a wired infrastructure is either not available or is too costly to deploy.

WiMAX is also available in a form that brings the capability to support subscriber mobility. The advanced radio features included in the WiMAX radio link give it capabilities in a mobile-user context similar to those of the most advanced 3G cellular technologies in use today. This has the potential to offer traditional fixed network operators an entry point into the mobile radio access market.

At the same time, WiMAX can be viewed by mobile network operators as a complementary and interworking technology for their existing 3G infrastructures, bringing increased capacity and service delivery options. Additionally, mobile network operators can use WiMAX to offer services in a way that mirrors those traditionally associated with the fixed marketplace.