An MVNO, or Mobile Virtual Network Operator, is a company that provides telecommunication services without having its own physical infrastructure of mobile networks. It buys access to network services from MNOs and resells these services under its own name. On the other hand, an MNO or Mobile Network Operator owns and operates its own mobile network infrastructure and provides important telecommunication services to users and businesses.
Although both MVNOs and MNOs provide reliable network services, they are quite different from each other. In this article, we will discuss some key differences between MVNO and MNO. Let’s have a look!
Control and Management
One of the biggest differences between MVNOs and MNOs is control and management. MNOs are complete network providers, having their own mobile network infrastructure. They have their own data centers, cell towers, and equipment. So, MNOs have full control over the network.
On the other hand, MVNOs depend on MNOs to buy network services. They focus on marketing and customer services and, thus, have no full control over network infrastructure.
Network Ownership
Another key difference between MNVO and MNO is network ownership. MNOs own a complete network. They build and manage a complete mobile network infrastructure. So, they have complete ownership control.
On the other hand, MVNOs do not have their own network and depend on MNOs for services. So, they do not have complete network ownership control. This can sometimes affect the quality of service, including things like speed. You can use an internet speed test to see your connection performance.
Business Model
MVNOs and MNOs also differ in their business models. MNOs own a complete network and provide services directly to their customers. They work at a higher level and have to manage high maintenance costs to provide reliable services.
However, MVNOs depend on MNOs for services and do not have to manage maintenance and other costs. Thus, MVNOs work more cost-effectively and offer specific services and plans. Big MNOs like Globe also offer many services, like internet plans and even tools to check network performance. Globe also offers a speed test so users can see how fast their internet is.
Scope of Operations
MNOs work on a larger scale and provide a range of mobile network services to millions of customers around the globe. However, MVNOs do not cover large areas as it does not own their own network infrastructure. So, it provides services only in specific or targeted areas.