A two- or three-digit number that identifies a specific mobile network operator within a given country, the Mobile Network Code (MNC) works alongside the Mobile Country Code (MCC) to form a unique identifier that distinguishes every operator worldwide. Together, the MCC and MNC make up the first part of the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), ensuring that every subscriber can be correctly routed and authenticated. When a device connects to a network, the MNC signals which carrier the subscriber is associated with.
How the MNC Works
The MNC narrows down the carrier within the MCC’s country code. This ensures seamless authentication and reliable service both domestically and internationally. For example, in the United States (MCC 310-316), different MNCs identify networks such as AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. This distinction is crucial for accurate call routing, roaming management, and billing across global mobile networks.
Examples of MNCs by Country
- United States: AT&T (MCC 310, MNC 410), T-Mobile (MCC 310, MNC 260), Verizon (MCC 311, MNC 480)
- United Kingdom: Vodafone (MCC 234, MNC 15), O2 (MCC 234, MNC 10)
- Germany: Deutsche Telekom (MCC 262, MNC 01)
- France: Orange (MCC 208, MNC 01)
- Japan: NTT DoCoMo (MCC 440, MNC 10)
Geographic Region Identification
The first digit of the mobile country code identifies the geographic region as follows (the digits 1 and 8 are not used):
- 0: Test networks
- 2: Europe
- 3: North America and the Caribbean
- 4: Asia and the Middle East
- 5: Australia and Oceania
- 6: Africa
- 7: South and Central America
- 9: Worldwide (Satellite, Air, aboard aircraft, Maritime, aboard ships, Antarctica)