What is PLMN on Mobile?
Today, let’s talk about something important when it comes to mobile networks: PLMN. You might have heard of PLMN while setting up your mobile device or while configuring network settings, but what exactly does it mean? Let me break it down for you so you can understand it clearly.
What is PLMN?
PLMN stands for Public Land Mobile Network. It refers to the mobile network infrastructure that provides services to mobile users like yourself. In simpler terms, when you use your mobile phone, you’re connecting to a PLMN to make calls, send messages, and access the internet. It consists of all the hardware and software used to provide the network services to the public.
Every country or region has its own PLMN that is operated by a specific mobile operator or carrier. When you use your mobile phone, the device connects to the nearest cell tower that is part of the PLMN, allowing you to stay connected with the network for all your mobile activities. Now, let’s dive deeper into how it works and its structure.
How Does PLMN Work?
PLMN operates under certain protocols that ensure you can connect to the network in an organized manner. Your mobile device automatically selects a PLMN based on your location and the available networks in that area. But how does your device know which network to connect to? This is where the Mobile Network Code (MNC) and Mobile Country Code (MCC) come into play.
PLMN Identification
The PLMN is identified by two codes:
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| MCC (Mobile Country Code) | It identifies the country where the network is located. For example, MCC 310 is for the United States. |
| MNC (Mobile Network Code) | It identifies the mobile network operator. For example, MNC 260 could represent T-Mobile in the U.S. |
When your mobile device detects a PLMN, it uses the MCC and MNC to identify which network to connect to. This is how your device knows whether it should connect to a local network or roam on a different network while traveling abroad.
PLMN Types
There are different types of PLMN, and each serves different purposes:
- Home PLMN: This is the primary network that your mobile device is registered with. It’s where you usually get the best signal and service.
- Visited PLMN: When you roam to a different network, your device connects to a visited PLMN. This is common when you’re traveling abroad.
- Roaming PLMN: This is similar to the visited PLMN, but it typically involves agreements between carriers in different countries or regions to allow you to use their network while you’re away from your home network.
Importance of PLMN
As we discussed in earlier articles, mobile networks rely on identifiers like the PLMN to establish connections. PLMN is essential for ensuring that your mobile device stays connected to the right network. It helps in managing things like roaming and network availability. When your device is connected to a PLMN, it can access network services such as voice calls, text messages, and mobile internet.
So next time you’re setting up a mobile device, or when you’re traveling and switching between networks, you’ll have a better understanding of what’s happening behind the scenes with the PLMN. It’s all about keeping you connected efficiently, no matter where you are.