MVNO Types and Operational Models

Unravel the complex world of MVNO operational models, exploring the diverse spectrum of virtual network operators and their strategic approaches to market penetration and service delivery.

What are the MVNO models? MVNO types, e.g. branded reseller, service provider, full MVNO, etc., are largely defined by which of the operational components, network elements or facilities the MVNO manages and which one the host network operator manages – indicating the depth of the individual MVNO’s market participation.

You will come across several names for the various types of MVNOs – or as a combination of types i.e.:

Airtime Reseller, Basic MVNO, Branded Reseller, Digital virtual network operators (DVNOs), Enhanced Service Provider (ESP), Extended MVNO, Full Mono IMSI MVNO, Full MVNO, Hybrid MVNO, IN MVNO, Medium MVNO, OMV, On-brand MVNO, Reseller MVNO, Service Provider MVNO, Sub-brand MVNO, Thick MVNO, Thin MVNO, VNO, IoT-VNO.

However the four most common used terms for MVNO definitions are:

MVNO Operational Models

Types of MVNO and operational models | Click image for larger version

What are sub-brands?

Sub-brands (also: secondary brands or flanker brands) are secondary brands, owned and controlled by the network operators. They are economically dependent on the network operators and try to differentiate offers and target groups. However, in a competitive context, sub-brands are not be viewed as relevant players because they have no independence from the network operators and are not in any price or innovation competition with the network operators.

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