Wi-Fi is a wireless technology intended to improve the interoperability of wireless local area network products based on the IEEE 802.11 standards. Using a WiFi wireless network a host of devices like a PC / laptop, mobile phones or PDAs can be connected to the internet without the hassle of getting into the mess of network cables. These devices just need to be WiFi enabled and when they are within a hotspot. The area covered by one or more interconnected access points is called a hotspot. A Wi-Fi hotspot can be installed in any place say home, restaurants, offices, hotel lobby etc.

WiFi enabled devices can also be connected in peer-to-peer mode where they can connect with ach other directly and also connect to the internet and digital cameras can transfer images wirelessly Wi-Fi allows LANs to be deployed without cabling for client devices, typically reducing the costs of network deployment and expansion. Spaces where cables cannot be run, such as outdoor areas and historical buildings, can host wireless LANs.

WiMax, the Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a telecommunications technology aimed at providing wireless data over long distances in a variety of ways, from point-to-point links to full mobile cellular type access. It is based on the IEEE 802.16 standard, which is also called WirelessMAN. WiMax allows a user, for example, to browse the Internet on a laptop computer without physically connecting the laptop to a wall jack. The name WiMax was created by the WiMax Forum, which was formed in June 2001 to promote conformance and interoperability of the standard. The forum describes WiMax as "a standards-based technology enabling the delivery of last mile wireless broadband access as an alternative to cable and DSL."