Wi-Fi and WiMAX are complementary technologies for their respective applications. Wi-Fi technology was designed and optimized for Local Area Networks (LAN), whereas WiMAX was designed and optimized for Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN). WiMAX typically is not a replacement for Wi-Fi. Rather, WiMAX complements Wi-Fi by extending its reach and providing a "Wi-Fi like" user experience on a much larger geographical scale.

Wi-Fi is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance for certified products based on the IEEE 802.11 (802.11 a/b/g/n) standards. Wi-Fi is designed for LANs.

WiMAX is based on the IEEE 802.16 standard. WiMAX privides a wireless alternative to cable and DSL for "last mile" broadband access, as well as portable internet connectivity.