WiMAX MAC Layer

One of the important aspects of WiMAX is the MAC layer supports more than one physical layer (PHY) mode. This characteristic not only enable companies to differentiate their product from each other, but also makes WiMAX to be an adaptive technology that can suit special requirements depending on application.

The WiMAX MAC layer performs the standard function of providing a medium independent interface to the PHY layer. The major focal point of the MAC layer is handling resource of air-link proficiently.

MAC layer is responsible on the whole connection to arrange packet transmission among multiple Point-to-Multipoint (PMP) and mesh network models.

The MAC layer is separated into three sub layers. There are called specific convergence sub layer (CS), MAC common part sub layer (CPS), and the security sub layer.

The MAC CS support asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) service and packet service used for packet-switched networks. The MAC CPS provides utilities to facilitate both types of service in the CS.

The security sub layer is the third sub layer within the MAC layer. It is designed for privacy, authentication, and confidentiality used for the SSs in the network.

The MAC is capable to grant differentiated service to users on the equivalent medium throughout a range of method. MAC design plays an essential role in WiMAX networks. A MAC protocol defining rules for orderly access to the physical shared medium is vital when it comes to efficient utilization and fair sharing of resources to desired system performance such as high throughput and short delay.