GLOSSARY
Telecom & connectivity glossary
Plain-English definitions of the terms you will meet across IoT, M2M, eSIM and mobile connectivity.
eSIM — A SIM embedded in the device that is programmed remotely – no plastic card. See the eSIM revolution.
eUICC — The standard that lets an eSIM hold and switch between multiple network profiles over the air.
SM-DP+ — The secure server that prepares and delivers eSIM profiles to devices.
Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP) — Delivering and changing SIM/eSIM profiles over the air. See RSP explained.
IMSI — The unique identity a SIM presents to a mobile network.
Multi-IMSI — A SIM that carries several IMSIs so it can attach to more networks and switch for better coverage or cost.
MNO — Mobile Network Operator – owns radio spectrum and network infrastructure.
MVNO — Mobile Virtual Network Operator – sells mobile service over networks owned by other operators.
MVNE — Mobile Virtual Network Enabler – provides the platform and back-office that lets an MVNO operate.
IoT — Internet of Things – connected devices that send and receive data.
M2M — Machine-to-Machine – devices communicating without human input. See M2M vs IoT.
MFF2 — An embedded SIM chip soldered into a device for rugged, permanent use.
APN — Access Point Name – the gateway a device uses to reach the data network.
Private APN — A dedicated, secured APN that routes traffic on a separate path for control and security.
Roaming — Using a network other than your home network, typically abroad.
Permanent roaming — A device that roams indefinitely in one country – subject to local rules. See permanent roaming.
IPX — A private, quality-managed network operators use to interconnect and exchange traffic.
RADIUS / AAA — Authentication, Authorisation and Accounting – how networks verify and account for sessions.
OTA — Over-the-Air – managing SIMs and profiles remotely without touching the device.
Steering — Directing a SIM to a preferred network by coverage, quality, cost or policy.
Failover — Automatically switching to another network if the current one fails.
Wholesale data — Bulk mobile data bought from operators or aggregators to resell.
Tier-1 network — A top-tier operator with its own extensive infrastructure. See Tier-1 access.
KYC — Know Your Customer – identity checks required in some markets before activation.
GSMA — The industry body that sets global mobile standards, including for eSIM.
PoP — Point of Presence – a local network breakout that lowers latency and improves speed.