There are currently many types of wireless network, including PANs (personal area networks), WLANs (wireless local area networks), and outdoor cellular phone networks. In general these networks are not compatible with each other, but as the evolution of wireless systems continues it is envisaged that different networks will interact seamlessly. A key strategy in achieving this goal is to use IP (Internet protocol) as a universal protocol for all wireless systems. Today's complex landscape of wireless standards makes it difficult for engineers to develop the next wave of devices and networks. This book clarifies the situation by giving a detailed overview of the current state-of-the-art, and by providing a road-map for the evolution to IP-based wireless packet networks. Given the huge global investment that has gone into the setting up of 3G networks, there is a pressing need for a book on this topic. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.