Strictly speaking, 802.16d has never existed as a standard. The standard is correctly called 802.16-2004. However, since this standard is frequently called 802.16d, that usage also takes place in this article to assist readability.
802.16e
Just as 802.16d has never existed, a standard called 802.16e hasn't either. It's an amendment to 802.16-2004, so is not a standard in its own right. It's properly referred to as 802.16e-2005.
Fixed WiMAX
This is a phrase frequently used to refer to systems built using 802.16-2004 ('802.16d') as the air interface technology.
Mobile WiMAX
A phrase frequently used to refer to systems built using 802.16e-2005 as the air interface technology. "Mobile WiMAX" implementations are therefore frequently used to deliver pure fixed services.
The bandwidth and reach of WiMAX make it suitable for the following potential applications:
Connecting Wi-Fi
hotspots with each other and to other parts of the Internet.
Providing a wireless alternative to cable and
DSL for
last mile (last km) broadband access.
Providing high-speed data and telecommunications services.
Providing a diverse source of Internet connectivity as part of a business continuity plan. That is, if a business has a fixed and a wireless Internet connection, especially from unrelated providers, they are unlikely to be affected by the same service outage.
Providing nomadic connectivity.