WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is a telecommunications protocol describing fixed and fully mobile Internet access services. The protocol conforms to certain parts of the IEEE 802.16 Standard. Coined by its namesake industry group, the WiMAX Forum, which was formed in 2001 as a nonprofit organization created to promote the adoption of WiMAX-compatible products and services, and certify the interoperability of WiMAX products, subsequently designated as WiMAX Forum Certified.