Mobile Network Operator (MNO)

Mobile Network Operator (MNO) Introduction

To enable end-to-end communication between wired and wireless telecom end-user devices, mobile network operators create a network of high-end telecommunications devices, specialized software, and client-end subscriber identity modules.

In addition to just voice dialing and receiving, MNOs also offer data communications via text messages, Internet access, and video communication.

What Does Mobile Network Operator (MNO) Mean?

A mobile network operator, also sometimes referred to as a carrier service provider, mobile phone operator or mobile network carrier, is a telecommunications service provider organization that provides wireless voice and data communication to its mobile customers registered to its services.

Mobile network operators are independent suppliers of communication services and own the entire telecom infrastructure used to host and manage mobile communications between subscribers to mobile services and users of the same and other wireless and wired telecom networks.

How do MNOs deliver services?

MNOs create a communication network by building a network of telecommunications infrastructure, including base stations and transmitter masts, as well as the supporting software, and then sell access to it for the delivery of telecommunications in the forms of voice, data, and video between end-user devices.

In order for subscribers' mobile devices to access the network services they are entitled to as part of their phone contract, the MNO assigns each subscriber’s mobile device a special identifier known as an IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity). If they are not local subscribers, then the MNO they are connecting to, and the MNO they are a subscriber to must have a roaming agreement in place.

Pros and Cons of MNO

With about 450 million mobile users relying on mobile internet, it's not going anywhere anytime soon. But it is important to explore the pros and cons of MNO to see what can be improved with future technological advances.

Pros:

• Can be used anywhere
  MNOs simplify connection by enabling communication absolutely anywhere: at home, outside, and abroad.
• Increases communication
  MNOs enable people to communicate with anyone, from friends and family to colleagues and prospects.
• Covers a large area
  There are very few locations where mobile service is unavailable. Mobile connectivity has a vast coverage area, meaning you can connect to the internet from almost anywhere in the world.

Cons:

• Connectivity issues
  When you are connected to 3G, 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi, you can perform most of your tasks on a mobile device. However, y our device is useless if it isn't connected to these services or if a signal issue causes you to lose connection.
• Security issues
  Due to the wireless nature of mobile network data, any hacker can access your data.