Mobile Network Operator (MNO)

Illustration of a mobile network operator concept with a telecom tower, a woman on a phone, and a man using a laptop, symbolizing communication technology and 5G connectivity.

What Is a Mobile Network Operator (MNO)?

A mobile network operator (MNO) is a service provider that owns and manages the systems needed to offer mobile services to users. This includes wireless calls, text messages, and Internet access, allowing people to stay connected through mobile phones, tablets, and smart devices.

MNOs control telecommunication devices like radio towers, base stations, and network equipment to provide coverage. They also own radio spectrum licenses needed to send and receive signals. Unlike mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), MNOs build and maintain their own networks instead of using another company’s infrastructure.

MNOs are also called carriers, wireless carriers, mobile phone operators, and telecom operators.

Key Takeaways

The mobile network operator is a service provider that owns and manages the infrastructure needed for mobile communications, including calls, texts, and Internet access.
MNOs operate radio towers and base stations and use licensed frequencies to provide smooth connectivity for users.
They offer network access, manage data traffic, ensure security, support international roaming, and develop new services like IoT and AI-powered networks.
MNOs own their infrastructure, handle customer service, invest in new technology, and follow strict regulatory rules.
When selecting an MNO, check coverage, pricing, customer support, security, and contract flexibility to find the best option for your needs.

Table of Contents Table of Contents

What Is a Mobile Network Operator (MNO)?
Key Takeaways
How a Mobile Network Operator Works
Types of Mobile Networks
MNO Functions
Mobile Network Operator Characteristics
MNO vs. MVNO & MVNE
Tips to Choose the Right Mobile Network Operator
MNO Pros & Cons
The Bottom Line
FAQs

Table of Contents

What Is a Mobile Network Operator (MNO)?
Key Takeaways
How a Mobile Network Operator Works

Show Full Guide

Types of Mobile Networks
MNO Functions
Mobile Network Operator Characteristics
MNO vs. MVNO & MVNE
Tips to Choose the Right Mobile Network Operator
MNO Pros & Cons
The Bottom Line
FAQs

How a Mobile Network Operator Works

There are several core components associated with MNOs:

Network infrastructure: An MNO builds and manages telecommunication infrastructure such as base stations, radio towers, and network systems, which provides mobile communications to users.
Radio spectrum: MNOs buy specific frequencies from the government to send and receive signals for calls, messages, and Internet access. They are divided into bands for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks, ensuring smooth communication.
SIM card & IMSI: Every user gets a SIM card with a unique number called international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI). The IMSI is used by the network to verify and authorize the user and provide services such as calls, messages, and mobile data.

This is the process flow for calls or texts:

When a mobile device is turned on, it searches for the nearest base station (cell tower) of the user’s MNO and connects to the network through radio signals.
The network checks the IMSI number on the SIM card to confirm the user’s identity.
Once verified, the phone is registered on the network and can make calls or access the Internet.
Calls, texts, and data requests travel from the mobile device to the nearest base station.
The base station sends the information through the MNO’s core network, which directs it to the correct recipient.
If the recipient is on another network, the MNO connects with that network to complete the communication.
If a user moves from one area to another, the network automatically switches the connection to the nearest base station.
When a user is outside their home country, they can connect to other MNOs that have agreements with their provider.

Types of Mobile Networks

There are several types of mobile networks, each offering different speeds, technology, and features:

2G (second generation)

Replaced analog systems with digital technology and allowed basic voice calls, SMS (text messaging), and limited data services like picture messaging (MMS). Technologies like GSM (global system for mobile communications) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) were used.

3G (third generation)

Provided faster data transfer, making it possible to browse the Internet, check emails, and make video calls. Enabled mobile applications and basic streaming. Used UMTS (universal mobile telecommunications system) and HSPA (high-speed packet access) for better performance.

4G (fourth generation)

Delivered much higher speeds than 3G, supporting HD video streaming, online gaming, and fast browsing. Introduced VoLTE (voice over LTE) for clearer voice calls. Based on LTE (long-term evolution) technology for improved efficiency.

5G (fifth generation)

Offers ultra-fast speeds, lower delays, and better network performance. Supports smart devices, AI, self-driving cars, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications and uses millimeter wave (mmWave) technology for faster and more stable connections.

MNO Functions

Your service provider must fulfill several functions:

Provide network access: A mobile network operator is a service provider that allows people to make phone calls, send text messages, and use the mobile Internet. By managing network towers, radio signals, and data systems, MNOs ensure smooth mobile service for users.
Manage network traffic: MNOs control data and call traffic to avoid congestion and keep the network running properly, especially when many people use it.
Provide security and comply with regulations: MNOs use encryption and cybersecurity measures to protect user data. They also follow regulatory compliance regulations to keep networks safe and ensure emergency services work properly.
Provide international roaming: MNOs work with other networks worldwide so users can stay connected when traveling abroad.
Provide service innovations: Many MNOs now offer IoT services, AI-powered network management, and cloud-based telecom solutions.

Mobile Network Operator Characteristics

Your mobile service carrier must also have these key features:

Own infrastructure

Owns and manages its own radio towers, network switches, and base stations. Unlike mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), which rent network access, an MNO builds and controls its own system.

Manage customers directly

Handle billing, customer service, and mobile plans directly, giving them full control over mobile communications and user experience (UX).

Driven by technology

MNOs should run 4G and 5G networks, which provide faster Internet, better call quality, and more reliable connections.

Invest high capital

Setting up and maintaining telecommunication devices requires large equipment and network upgrade investments.

Comply with regulations

MNOs must follow regulatory compliance laws, including government regulations for frequency licenses and data security.

MNO vs. MVNO & MVNE

Although these terms might seem interchangeable, they actually aren’t. Here’s a breakdown:

MNO (mobile network operator): An MNO owns and controls the entire telecom system, including radio towers, base stations, and network equipment. It provides mobile service, manages frequency licenses, and supports customers directly.
MVNO (mobile virtual network operator): An MVNO does not own network infrastructure. Instead, it rents network access from an MNO to offer mobile service under its own brand. MVNOs focus on pricing, promotions, and customer service.
MVNE (mobile virtual network enabler): An MVNE helps MVNOs by handling billing, network setup, and technical management. It allows MVNOs to operate without needing their own infrastructure.

These are the key differences:

An MNO owns and runs the network.
An MVNO focuses on marketing and customer service.
An MVNE supports MVNOs with technology and operations.

Tips to Choose the Right Mobile Network Operator

Choosing the right mobile network service provider comes with several factors to consider:

Coverage and reliabilityPlan pricingCustomer supportSecurity & privacyContract flexibility

Before choosing a mobile service provider, ensure that its 4G and 5G networks have good coverage in your area. A reliable carrier should offer stable connections for calls, messages, and Internet use.

Compare data, call, and SMS plans from different carriers. Some offer unlimited data, while others have cheaper options with limits. Choose a plan that fits your needs.

A good service provider should have helpful and fast customer support to fix billing problems, network issues, and other concerns.

To keep your information safe, pick an MNO with strong cybersecurity features like data protection and fraud prevention. Having said that, you should still use a mobile VPN as an extra layer of protection, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi.

Before signing up, check the contract details, including roaming options, upgrades, and cancellation policies.

MNO Pros & Cons

Pros

Own their network infrastructure, which helps them provide strong and stable mobile service in cities and rural areas
Ensure better service than MVNOs
Follow strict regulatory compliance rules, ensuring better data protection and cybersecurity

Cons

Charge more than MVNOs because they need to maintain their own infrastructure
Must follow strict government rules, which can make operations more difficult
Too many users simultaneously can slow down mobile service, especially during peak hours

The Bottom Line

A mobile network operator is essential for mobile communications, providing calls, texts, and Internet access through its own network. While MNOs offer better coverage, security, and advanced 5G services, they can be more expensive than MVNOs.

Knowing the MNO definition helps users choose the best provider for their needs.