MSID (Mobile Station Identifier)

Last updated on May 10, 2023

Introduction:

Mobile Station Identifier (MSID) is a unique identification number that is used to identify a mobile station in wireless communication systems. A mobile station can be any device that is capable of wireless communication, such as a mobile phone, laptop, or tablet. The MSID is used by the network to route calls, messages, and data to the correct mobile station.

MSID in GSM:

In GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), the MSID is known as International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI). The IMSI is a 15-digit number that consists of three parts: Mobile Country Code (MCC), Mobile Network Code (MNC), and Mobile Station Identification Number (MSIN).

The MCC is a three-digit number that identifies the country where the mobile station is registered. The MNC is a two or three-digit number that identifies the mobile network operator. The MSIN is a 10-digit number that identifies the mobile station within the network.

For example, in the UK, the MCC is 234, and the MNC for Vodafone UK is 15. Therefore, the IMSI for a mobile station registered with Vodafone UK would start with 23415. The remaining 10 digits would identify the mobile station within the Vodafone UK network.

MSID in CDMA:

In CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), the MSID is known as Electronic Serial Number (ESN). The ESN is a unique 32-bit number that is used to identify a mobile station in the network. The ESN is divided into two parts: manufacturer code and serial number.

The manufacturer code is assigned by the device manufacturer, and the serial number is unique to each device. The ESN is programmed into the device's firmware and is used by the network to authenticate the device.

MSID in UMTS:

In UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), the MSID is known as UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) Identifier. The USIM Identifier is a 128-bit number that is used to identify a mobile station in the network.

The USIM Identifier consists of three parts: Mobile Country Code (MCC), Mobile Network Code (MNC), and USIM Identification Number (UIN). The MCC and MNC are the same as in GSM, and the UIN is a unique 64-bit number that identifies the mobile station within the network.

MSID in LTE:

In LTE (Long-Term Evolution), the MSID is known as Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI). The TMSI is a temporary identifier that is assigned to a mobile station when it first connects to the network.

The TMSI is used by the network to avoid sending the IMSI over the air, which could be intercepted by a malicious user. Instead, the network uses the TMSI to route calls, messages, and data to the correct mobile station. The TMSI is periodically updated to prevent tracking of the mobile station.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Mobile Station Identifier (MSID) is a unique identification number that is used to identify a mobile station in wireless communication systems. The MSID is used by the network to route calls, messages, and data to the correct mobile station. The MSID is known by different names in different wireless communication systems, such as IMSI in GSM, ESN in CDMA, USIM Identifier in UMTS, and TMSI in LTE.