WIMAX is a wireless metropolitan area network technology that supports fixed, nomadic, portable and mobile wireless access. It provides a cost effective fixed wireless alternative to conventional wired DSL. A wireless network is more vulnerable than a wired, to external threats. We have assessed the authentication and Key management process in 802.16 mesh networks. In this paper we analyze the existing protocols, as well as related work and assessed the existing authentication and key management protocol. We have proposed some changes in the existing authentication and key management process which may improve the efficiency of WiMAX mesh networks. In proposed scenario it is expected that BS efficiency may be increased in responding the requesting SS's and a mechanism of how a BS maintains the information about active nodes. This work may help in future research on 802.16 mesh. © 2013 International Information Institute.