GSM frequency bands are groups of frequencies that can be used to transmit voice and data signals over a cellular phone network. They are different from one country to another because different countries have different laws and regulations about how much frequency can be used for phones. Frequency bands are like lanes on a highway - if there is more traffic than the lanes can handle, some of the phones may not be able to make or receive calls. GSM phones work by sending and receiving radio signals over these frequency bands - the higher the frequency, the faster and better the signal quality.