Signal & Syntax · Networks, HLR and porting

What Is an MNO?

An MNO (mobile network operator) runs its own radio network under a spectrum license. Vodafone, AT&T and e& are MNOs.

Also calledmobile network operator · carrier

Example

MCC-MNC 235-91 · Vodafone UK

MNO in Practice

An MNO owns the radio access network and the core network, including the HLR. The regulator allocates numbering ranges to MNOs. MVNOs rent capacity from an MNO and resell service under their own brand. In routing, the MNO serving a number decides where SMS and calls terminate.

Where ScoreMachine Fits

score.phone.validation.mnp
carrier

carrier names the network serving the number after porting.

Related Terms

MVNO An MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) sells mobile service on another operator's radio network. MCC and MNC The MCC (mobile country code) names a country in three digits. Serving network The serving network is the operator holding a phone number's subscription today. Range holder The range holder is the operator allocated a numbering range.

Read the Guide

Guide

Mobile Number Portability and SMS Routing

Why the range holder is the wrong carrier for a ported number. Read the guide →

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