Third-generation network service providers are eager to augment their existing wireless offerings with WiMAX technology. This step is vital to the evolution from fixed broadband wireless to the widespread availability of mobile broadband wireless. WiMAX, which is based on the IEEE 802.16 standard, complements existing 3G networks. It creates a converged service offering that users can access using a broad range of devices on a wide variety of networks.

Through a strategic partnership between Lucent Technologies and Alvarion, service providers will soon see a converged networking technology. This technology will deliver the seamless interoperability of WiMAX, 3G mobile (CDMA2000 and W-CDMA/UMTS), Wi-Fi, and wireline networks. Lucent will integrate Alvarion's BreezeMAX 3G orthogonal-frequency-division-multiplexing (OFDM) platform into its Accelerate Next-Generation Communications Solutions portfolio. Alvarion's WiMAX-ready platform offers non-line-of-sight functionality.

At the heart of Lucent's converged network portfolio is its IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) product. This service-delivery platform enables service providers to introduce new voice over IP (VoIP) and multimedia services. IMS lets providers roll out services that blend voice and data capabilities, simplifying the creation of converged "lifestyle" service bundles. It also helps providers leverage a common applications infrastructure to deliver services with a common look and feel across 3G mobile, Wi-Fi, WiMAX, and wireline networks. As part of this initiative, Lucent Worldwide Services will provide a comprehensive suite of deployment, maintenance, and professional services to support WiMAX infrastructure and applications.

Both Lucent and Alvarion are members of the WiMAX Forum. The WiMAX Forum is expected to certify products as WiMAX Forum Certified later this year. By working with Alvarion and the WiMAX Forum, Lucent hopes to ensure that its WiMAX offerings are compatible with 3G mobile and wireline networks. It also will strive to meet service-provider requirements for quality, reliability, and performance.