Wireless PAN
Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPANs) interconnect devices within a relatively small area, generally within reach of a person. For example, Bluetooth Infrared rays provide a WPAN for interconnecting a headset to a laptop. Wireless PANs are also getting popular as vendors have started integrating Wi-Fi in variety of consumer electronic devices.
Wireless LAN
A wireless local area network (WLAN) links two or more devices using some wireless distribution method and usually providing a connection through an access point to the wider internet. This gives users the mobility to move around within a local coverage area and still be connected to the network.
Wireless LANs have become popular in the home due to ease of installation, and the increasing popularity of laptop computers. Public businesses such as coffee shops and malls offer wireless access to their customers; sometimes for free. Large wireless network projects are being put up in many major cities.
Wireless MAN
Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks are a type of wireless network that connects several Wireless LANs.
WiMAX is a type of Wireless MAN and means Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access. No, not cooking but a telecommunications protocol that provides fixed and fully mobile Internet access. The name “WiMAX” was created by the WiMAX Forum, which was formed in June 2001 to promote conformity and interoperability of the standard. The forum describes WiMAX as “a standards-based technology enabling the delivery of wireless broadband access as an alternative to cable and DSL”.
Wireless WAN
Wireless wide area networks are wireless networks that typically cover large outdoor areas. These networks can be used to connect branch offices of business or as a public internet access system.