Don’t let the technical sound of a “mobile virtual network operator,” or MVNO, scare you off. Pay close attention to them to choose the best mobile phone package. Even if you aren’t familiar with the term, almost all mobile carriers in the United States are included here, and you should look into their plans if you’re searching for a new phone.

What is an MVNO?

An MVNO is a mobile virtual network provider that uses another company’s network to provide mobile phone service. Rather, it piggybacks on the signals, bandwidth, and system of a more established carrier. Almost all MVNOs use one of these three alternatives to operate their fiber network; however, some also rely on US Cellular’s extensive system of local cell towers. Numerous MVNOs depend on a mix of signals from different networks.

In What Ways Are Mobile Virtual Network Operators Different from Other Types of Network Providers?

Different MVNOs use one of four different business models, each described below. On the other hand, MVNOs all have their own distinguishing features. Most mobile virtual network operators are recognized by their

·   Gaining access to a huge customer base

·   Loyal consumers who are more likely to buy white-labeled mobile network goods and services

·   Having the means or access to funding necessary to develop customer-facing infrastructure.

Which Kinds of MVNOs Are Available Today?

There are four different kinds of MVNOs, which are as follows:

Branded Reseller

Creating a branded reseller is the “lightest” and fastest MVNO business model. To attract new consumers and keep the ones they already have, brand resellers often use their name recognition and, in certain cases, their distribution networks.

Full MVNO

Full MVNOs have been around the longest and are the industry standard. Because full MVNOs are accountable for the whole of the value chain, they allocate more resources to this area.

Light MVNO

Light MVNOs are a transitional service that does not quite fit the bill of either branded resellers or full MVNOs. They are in charge of business development, customer service, and administrative tasks.

Network Enablers

MVNEs, or “Network Enablers,” are a kind of intermediary in the communications industry. They provide the hardware needed for MVNO services to function. Additionally, MVNEs may provide back-office operations and value-added services to MVNOs.

Which Is the Best MVNO Provider?

There isn’t a black-and-white solution here since it depends on your criteria. Because of their strong networks, you will not be disappointed with an MVNO with one of the major carriers.  Ultimately, your decision will depend on the type of plan you need and the provider with the best coverage in your region. Although accessing the networks of separate carriers, many provide excellent low-cost options for family mobile phone plans. Focus on the MVNO’s features rather than those of its parent business, even if going with an MVNO that utilizes a well-known company’s services will provide you with global WiFi.

The Bottom Line

The value that MVNOs provide to their industries is significant. They fuel expansion by allowing mobile network providers to reach a wider audience. In addition, MVNOs provide customers access to a wider variety of affordable options.