Anyone who has ever had to set their cell phone or cellular router configurations has seen the option for APN. But what is an APN, or access point name?
The access point name on a mobile device is the identity of the gateway between a cellular network and another computer network, usually the public internet. It provides access to data services like GPRS, 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G networks.
The APN also authenticates and authorizes a user's access to the network, ensuring that only authorized users can access data services. Here are the APN settings you'll find on your phone:
- APN: This is the name of the access point. The access point name for phones in the U.S. is "wholesale."
- APN Types: The APN type determines how your device connects to the network. For example, if you're using a 4G LTE connection, then you need to use the "default" APN type. Other types include "MMS," "supl," and "wap."
- Username/Password: Some networks require a username and password to connect. If this is the case, you'll need to enter these details here.
- Proxy: Some mobile carriers may have a proxy server to control traffic and limit data usage. The proxy is the intermediary between the internet and the network.
- MMSC: The multimedia messaging service (MMS) center is required for mobile virtual network operators using MMS. You only need this feature if you use MMS.
Access Point Name Components
An access point name may look like gibberish, but it holds important information. Here's an example of an APN:
“Internet.mcc310.mnc070.3gppnetwork.org”
While this looks like a random assortment of words and letters, the name follows an APN structure. If you know how to read this structure, you can get basic gateway information, such as the network.
You can also find out which MNO (mobile network operator) the APN is connected to. In this case, 'mcc310-mnc004' is Verizon in the U.S.
The APN for Verizon LTE is vzwinternet. For users outside the U.S., the APN is inetgsm.vzw3g.com.
An APN has the following two components: network identifier and operator identifier. Besides the two main components, every APN also ends with ".gprs" or ".3gppnetwork.org."
The .gprs indicates a GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) network connection, while the .3gppnetwork.org stands for 3rd Generation Partnership Project. It is the mobile standard for networks around the world.
The APN for T-Mobile LTE is fast.t-mobile.com. The APNs for AT&T can be on their technical support pages here.
Network Identifier
The network identifier consists of two elements: the Mobile Country Code (MCC) and the Mobile Network Code (MNC). The MCC is a three-digit country code for the network you're connecting to. Meanwhile, the MNC is a two- or three-digit code that identifies the network operator.
Operator Identifier
The operator identifier offers additional information about the network you're connecting to. It comprises two parts: the service type and the APN type. The service type indicates the type of connection you're making, such as data, MMS, or Wi-Fi. The APN type describes the actual network provider and may include any additional information about the network.
Some APNs also have custom names. That makes them easier to remember and enter, especially when using Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
In a custom APN, the name still has an operator and network identifier. But the translation from the unique domain to the standard APN format happens at the backend. So, you don't have to worry about entering the standard format.
Every APN also has one of the two protocols. The APN protocol may be IPv6 or IPv4. The protocol sends and receives data between two or more devices connected to a network. It also maintains connections, routes traffic flow, and provides quality of service (QoS) control.
Acces Point Name (APN) Types
The types of APNs on a cellular network differ based on whether they use a static or dynamic IP address. The network type — private or public — also affects the access point name type.
Generic
The generic access point name connects your device to the internet. Generally, this connection requires you to input an access point name. It's usually provided by your internet service provider (ISP) and can be found in the ISP's documentation or via the ISP's customer support.
Secure User Plane Location (SUPL)
The SUPL APN is used in mobile applications to ensure reliable location services. It provides a secure communication channel between the device and the server to avoid data leakage.
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)
MMS transfers multimedia messages like images, video clips, and audio recordings over mobile networks. MMS APNs are used in conjunction with other settings, such as the username and password, to establish a connection between your device and the internet.
Updating An Access Point Name (APN)
All smartphones including Android and iPhone devices have specific instructions for updating an APN in the Android OS or iOS operating systems. For any cellular router or gateway, each manufacturer has instructions for their proprietary software. Usually updating the APN is a point-and-click update.
Public vs Private APN: How They Differ
A public access point name comes as a default option in your SIM subscription from the mobile network. The defaults allow users to access the internet without any further configurations. A public network is usually open to all users, meaning no encryption keys or passwords are associated with it.
Meanwhile, a private APN is for a private network. It's also known as a corporate APN since it allows users to access a particular network. It differs from a public network in that it requires authentication for access and provides data protection.
A private access point name is common in corporate settings, such as large businesses, government organizations, and educational institutions. The authentication type (password or encryption) varies depending on the provider and the specific use of the private APN.
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