A wide variety of types and numbers of wireless data networks exist. Some of these operate via wireless voice networks, like cellular telephone networks. Some examples of these include: Cellular Digital Packet Data (CPDP), High-Speed Circuit-Switched Data (HSCSD), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), and Packet Data Cellular (PDC-P). Other types of wireless networks operate on the physical layers of their individual networks. These may use a wide variety of signals, including antennas located atop towers, or those designed as part of a handheld device. Some examples of these are Local Multipoint Distribution Systems (LMDS) or Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Systems (MMDS) technologies, or 802.11 standards (often used for wireless local area networks, or LANs). In a few instances, the wireless network is designed to connect only with small devices at short distances. One example of this is Bluetooth technology.

Those networks that operate via other wireless networks frequent use these lower layer networks for the purpose of providing both security and encoding. Wireless networks that operate independently of others are able either to maintain their own security and contain proprietary encoding features, or they depend on Virtual Private Networks, also known as VPNs, for the provision of these functions. Frequently, a network may require several layers of both security and encoding.

The antennas of some wireless networks rarely move. These networks are known as fixed networks. Mobile networks feature antennas that are capable of constant movement. At times, this is a function of the antenna's design or unique specifications, rather than a design problem with the wireless network.

Any of these networks are permitted to operate on both licensed and unlicensed frequencies.