Techniques for exchanging capabilities in a wireless network are provided. In one embodiment, a first device receives a capability message over a communication link from a second device in a WiMAX network. The communication link may be between any combination of base stations and gateways. For example, the R4, R6, or R8 interface may be used. Other interfaces may also be appreciated in a WiMAX network. The capability message includes one or more capabilities supported by a second device in the WiMAX network. Capabilities to support are then determined based on the one or more capabilities. These capabilities will be supported by the first device for communications with the second device. The first device is then configured to support the determined capabilities. Accordingly, the first device is dynamically configured based on the capability message received.