4G technologies such as LTE and WiMAX represent the next stage in the evolution of wireless data technologies and generally deliver average download rates of 3Mbps or higher. In contrast, today's 3G networks typically deliver average download speeds about one-tenth of that rate. Until today's Verizon LTE announcement, Sprint had been the only major carrier to offer 4G services in the United States as its WiMAX network has been up and running commercially for more than two years. Rival carriers T-Mobile and AT&T are expected to launch LTE networks of their own sometime next year.

in Network World's Anti-malware section.