What is MCC in Network?
In telecommunications, the MCC, or Mobile Country Code, is a crucial element of the network’s identity and functioning. I’ll walk you through its meaning and role in a way that’s easy to understand.
The MCC is a unique three-digit code that identifies a country within a mobile network. It’s part of the IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) and helps the mobile network identify the country where the device is operating. This code, together with the Mobile Network Code (MNC), forms a unique identifier for a mobile network operator. So, whenever you connect to a network, your device uses the MCC to tell the network which country it’s in, allowing the network to route calls, texts, and data correctly.
Let me break this down a bit more. The full IMSI is made up of three components: the MCC, MNC, and MSIN (Mobile Subscriber Identification Number). For example, the MCC for the United States is 310, while the MNC is specific to the carrier (e.g., 260 for T-Mobile USA). The IMSI, which combines these elements, gives the network a unique identifier for each mobile subscriber in that specific country and network.
Why is the MCC important? Well, when a mobile device moves across borders and switches between different networks, the MCC helps ensure that the device connects to the correct operator in the new country. The MCC also plays a vital role in processes like roaming, ensuring that the right country and operator codes are used to connect calls, send messages, and access data services.
For example, if you’re traveling from your home country to another, your phone will recognize the new country’s MCC and adjust its connection to the new network accordingly. This enables you to continue using services like voice calls and data, even if you’re outside your home country.
Now, let’s look at some examples of MCCs for different countries:
- United States: 310
- United Kingdom: 234
- India: 404
- China: 460
Understanding MCC can be helpful when you’re dealing with roaming or when you’re interested in how global mobile networks function. In the previous article, we discussed network roaming and how it works. The MCC plays a crucial part in that process, ensuring that devices can seamlessly switch between networks while abroad. It’s all about making sure your mobile services work properly, no matter where you are in the world.