License

No government-issued license.

Licensed by the FCC, Full Member of the GSM Association (reserved only for mobile network operators).

Core Network Architecture

MNVO depends on core infrastructure of the Mobile Network Operator they are reselling.

Designed and owns purpose-built network infrastructure needed for automated provisioning and real-time control.  Partners with global GSM Operators for network coverage.

SIMs

MVNO uses SIMs belonging to the Operator they are reselling. 

Provides its own SIM, which allows for innovative solutions such as Secure SIM, Home Zone controls and Embedded SIM.. 

Provisioning of Service

Customer contacts the MVNO, they contact the operator.  Customer waits.  Or pays extra to ship live SIMs.  To deactivate, customer contacts MVNO, they contact operator, customer waits.

Turn on the device.  Activation is instant.  No manual steps. Deactivation can occur in less than 5 seconds anywhere in the world.  Customer receives direct access to provisioning system - no phone calls or emails, no programming activation date in advance.

Factory Testing

Customer pays for service.

Free factory testing with every SIM.

Global Coverage

Direct relationship with 1-2 operators, relies on their roaming agreements

Direct relationships with over 40 operators.  Local service across global footprint.

Visibility & Control

A web-based portal for access to FAQs and knowledge base, monthly invoices, after-the-fact alerts, some usage reports and authentication services.

Web- or API-based Control Center with up-to-the-second usage reports and instant control over activation states, rate plans, SMS controls, detailed month-to-date usage reports, SIM options, detailed in-session data.

Vertical Application Solutions

Same service for all industries

Unique capabilities designed for specific industries.  Examples include Secure SIM, Home Zone controls, Accelerator Service and more.

Certification /
Wireless Consulting

Certification completed by Operator that is being resold by MVNO, with cost borne by customer.  The process typically takes 16 – 20 weeks.  Every device must be certified with each Operator.

Fast, free and global.  Single certification for use across global footprint of over 45 countries.  Includes detailed performance analysis to highlight ways to optimize network performance.  Typically complete in less than four weeks.