How do I find mcc and mnc?

How do I find MCC and MNC?

Today, as we explore how to find the Mobile Country Code (MCC) and Mobile Network Code (MNC), I want to help you clearly understand what these codes are and where you can find them. If you remember, in one of our earlier topics, we talked about how LTE networks identify and manage devices. MCC and MNC play a key role in that, so let me explain you step by step.

What are MCC and MNC?

The MCC and MNC are used together to form a PLMN (Public Land Mobile Network) identifier. This unique identifier tells the mobile device which network it is connected to.

Now that you know what they mean, let’s talk about how you can actually find them.

Ways to Find MCC and MNC

I’ll show you multiple ways, and you can choose what suits you best based on your device or use case.

• From Your Smartphone: Most smartphones automatically read MCC and MNC from the SIM card. You can use apps like “Network Info II” or “NetMonitor” to display this information directly.
• Using USSD Codes: Some phones allow you to dial certain codes like *#0011# or *#*#4636#*#* to open engineering or test menus, which may show MCC and MNC info.
• From SIM Card Info: MCC and MNC are embedded in the IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity). For example, if your IMSI starts with 40410, then MCC is 404 and MNC is 10.
• Using AT Commands (for modems): If you’re working with USB modems or modules, you can send AT+COPS? or AT+CREG? through a serial terminal, and the response will often include MCC and MNC.
• Checking Log Files (Engineering Tools): Tools like QXDM, TEMS, or Qualcomm log tools provide detailed logs that show PLMN info, including MCC and MNC.
• From Network Side: If you’re managing a network, the eNodeB or base station configuration will list MCC and MNC in the PLMN ID section.

Why Do MCC and MNC Matter?

Let me also tell you why it’s important to know them. Your mobile device uses MCC and MNC to connect to the right network and roam properly when you’re in another country or using a different operator’s tower. It’s also used in LTE network selection, tracking area updates, and authentication procedures.

PLMN Structure Reference

As we saw in earlier topics like SIM authentication and PLMN selection, these codes aren’t just identifiers — they control how your device interacts with the mobile network. You can think of them as network passports, guiding your phone to find the right home or visitor network wherever you go.