**2.1 Interoperability with 3GPP networks**

WiMAX network has the features with high spectrum efficiency, large data throughput, and effective cost. While 3GPP network has the mature services of voice, roaming, handover, improved authentication and accounting.Achieving the interoperability of these different networks will meet the future needs of the growing market.

There are many programs to achieve the interoperability of these two networks but operators must determine the details according to the actual situation. Generally, the interoperability between 3GPP and WiMAX has the following six application modes:


In these modes, WiMAX can be added to or be side by side with WCDMA.

Considering current network deployment, existing 3GPP network and commercial development progress of WiMAX, it is recommended the following two interconnections:


• WiMAX works as an additional network and cause less impact on WCDMA.

This program is suitable for the case that WCDMA construction is completed. It can enhance the data rate by deploying WiMAX.

Fig. 6. First Plan for Interoperability with 3GPP networks

Fig. 7. Second Plan for Interoperability with 3GPP networks


The first plan is for initial solution of interconnection between two networks. With the development of this service, you can choose the second plan . Data services will be open to the users of WiMAX gradually.
