Abstract
Aiming to provide low-cost universal broadband access, this paper describes the strategy that supports the integration of hybrid satellite and WiMAX, based on the network architecture proposed in the IST Satsix project. In this context, WiMAX networks can be used as wireless local loops integrated with a satellite network, lowering the cost of the broadband internet connections and providing a universal access to rural and marine areas. The paper presents the problems concerning the interworking between DVB-RCS and WiMAX technologies and the solutions adopted in the SatSix research project, partially funded by European Commission within the Information Society Technologies (IST) 6th Framework Programme.