A mobile network operator (MNO), also known as carriage service provider (CSP), wireless service provider, wireless carrier, mobile phone operator, or cellular company, is a telephone company that provides services for mobile phone subscribers.

The process of becoming a mobile network operator within a country usually begins by acquiring a radio spectrum license from the government. The precise spectrum obtained does depend on the type of mobile phone technology the operator intends to deploy. For example, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network will require a GSM frequency range.

The government may allocate spectrum using whichever method it chooses, although the most common method is an auction. Recent allocation of 3G and WiMax licenses in Europe have been auctioned.

Virtual operators

Another category of mobile network operator is emerging in some markets called the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). As far as the subscriber is concerned, they seem identical to regular mobile network operators. The critical difference is that they do not own the underlying network of base stations, but lease it instead from another incumbent operator in that country. An MNO that does not have a frequency spectrum allocation in a particular geographical region may operate as an MVNO in that region.

See also

• List of mobile network operators
• Mobile Virtual Network Operator
• Telephone company
• List of telephone operating companies