Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN)

What is Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN)?

Any wireless communications network designed for use by customers in cars or on foot is referred to as a public land mobile network (PLMN). An individual using a mobile phone is the most typical example of a Public Land Mobile Network end user. Internet usage on smartphones and other portable devices has also risen in popularity.

How does PLMN work?

A PLMN is often made up of various cellular technologies, such as GSM/2G, UMTS/3G, and LTE/4G, offered by a single operator inside a certain country.

PLMN code

A PLMN code, which is made up of an MCC (Mobile Country Code) and an MNC (Mobile Network Code), identifies a Public Land Mobile Network on a global scale. It is usually a five to six-digit number that designates a country and a mobile network provider. PLMN lists are usually visible on SIM cards that you get from operators.

PLMN code and IMSI

Usually, the Public Land Mobile Network code is the first part of the IMSI, which identifies a SIM or USIM for a subscriber. Mobile devices use this to detect roaming, therefore they will often display an "R" on the icon that represents connection strength if they are connected to a network with a Public Land Mobile Network code that differs from the start of the USIM's IMSI.

PLMN services

A mobile subscriber can normally get the following services through a Public Land Mobile Network:

• Emergency calls to police, ambulance, and fire services
• Voice calls to and from other PLMN (cellular) or landline users
• MMS services to other cellular or landline users
• Internet data connectivity