What are MSN and MSISDN? A brief explanation of the basic concepts of the telecommunications industry and their differences

Explanation of IT Terms

What are MSN and MSISDN? A Brief Explanation of Basic Telecommunications Concepts

Introduction

In the rapidly expanding telecommunications industry, there are numerous technical terms and acronyms that can be confusing for the average person. Two such terms are MSN and MSISDN. In this blog post, we will explore the basic concepts of these terms and shed light on their differences. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what MSN and MSISDN mean in the realm of telecommunications.

What is MSN?

MSN stands for “Mobile Subscriber Number.” It refers to a unique identification number assigned to a mobile subscriber in a telecommunications network. Essentially, MSN is the telephone number that is used to identify a subscriber’s device within the network. It plays a crucial role in routing calls and messages to the correct recipient.

For instance, when you dial a phone number, the MSN is used to establish a connection with the intended recipient’s device. Each mobile subscriber has a unique MSN, allowing for precise targeting and routing of incoming and outgoing calls.

What is MSISDN?

MSISDN, on the other hand, stands for “Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number.” It is a comprehensive number that includes the MSN and additional information about the mobile subscriber. In simpler terms, MSISDN is the complete phone number that comprises the MSN along with the country code and other relevant digits.

The MSISDN consists of three parts: the country code, the national destination code, and the subscriber number (MSN). By encompassing all these elements in a single number, the MSISDN enables international call routing and facilitates seamless communication across various networks.

The Difference between MSN and MSISDN

In summary, the main difference between MSN and MSISDN lies in their scope and the information they convey. MSN is solely the individual subscriber number, while MSISDN is the complete phone number that includes the MSN, country code, and other relevant digits.

To better understand, let’s consider an analogy. If we compare a phone number to an address, MSN would represent the specific apartment number within a building, whereas MSISDN would represent the full postal address, including the street, city, and apartment number.

Considering their distinct purposes, MSN is primarily used within the telecommunication network to route calls and messages, while MSISDN is crucial for international call routing and enables seamless communication between different networks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MSN and MSISDN are both important concepts in the telecommunications industry. MSN represents the unique subscriber number within a network, while MSISDN encompasses the complete phone number including the MSN, country code, and other relevant digits. Understanding the difference between these terms is essential for comprehending the intricacies of telecommunication systems and the smooth functioning of communication networks.

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