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What is a Carrier...What is a Network? When
we refer you to an "Alternative" Network or to a different "Carrier",
what are we talking about? This is where to learn the
difference among wireless carriers. The difference
can be substantial. Some Alternative carriers have millions
of customers, and some have only a few thousand.
What
is a Carrier?
The major cellular companies are "carriers" because they carry your data
and calls across their own network. The other companies we
call Alternative carriers are virtual carriers: they carry your account
with your
plan and phone, but they don't own the equipment that actually carries
your calls and data.
These
Alternative carriers can sell and maintain your phone, and
take care of your billing and customer service.
These companies
are also known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO), wholesale
carriers, or cellular "re-sellers". Some of these MVNO's can also use
networks operated by carriers that are not one of Top 4. Some
of the
carriers we list as Alternatives are owned by the major
carriers
themselves. In most cases you won't
know which carrier you're using, especially with the companies that use
Multiple
Networks.
The
type of wireless
device determines whether a CDMA or GSM carrier is used. Some features
that are
available from the "main" carriers may not be offered by these
re-sellers. Conversely, some of the Alternative carriers offer
features not available from
the main carriers. This is where to look if you hate your carrier but
love
their network.
What is a
Network?
The
Network is the physical infrastructure of transmitters, receivers, cell
sites, back hauls, switches, and all the equipment needed to connect
your calls and data to sources within and outside the cellular
framework. The largest wireless carriers own or lease the
spectrum used by these networks and hold licenses from the FCC. The
network owners are the ones responsible for maintaining and repairing
the collection of equipment and connections. When your
Alternative carrier tells you repairs are being made, it the main
carrier is making the repairs. The 4
largest cellular companies do not carry all of the connections
in the US,
but do carry the most, and they service coverage all, or almost all of
the states in the US. There are dozens of smaller networks
owned by various wireless companies who also make their actual
network available to these Alternative carriers. In addition,
there is at least one network that owns and operates their own
wireless infrastructure who leases their service to both the major and
Alternative carriers alike.
Who Operates the Networks?
The 3 largest wireless networks that can or do offer coverage in all 50
states:
Other mid-size wireless companies that maintain their own network in regional areas of the US and offer service to Alternative carriers: |
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