ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mobile network operator

A mobile network operator is like a big company that helps our phones and tablets talk to each other. Just like when we want to talk to a friend, we use a telephone network to connect our phones, a mobile network operator helps us connect our mobile devices to each other.

They have big towers called cell towers that look like tall trees or poles. These towers send and receive signals like invisible waves in the air. When we make a call or send a message, our phone sends these signals to the cell tower, and it tells the other person's phone where to find us.

Once the cell tower gets the signal, it sends it to a special place called a base station. This base station is like a big computer that controls all the calls and messages going in and out. It makes sure that your phone talks to the right person, and it keeps everything running smoothly.

The mobile network operator also gives us special cards called SIM cards. These cards are like tiny computers that go inside our phones and tablets. They have a special code that tells the mobile network operator who we are and that we are allowed to use their network.

When we want to use the internet on our phones, the mobile network operator helps us with that too. They have special connections to the internet called data networks. These networks allow us to browse the internet, watch videos, and use apps on our mobile devices.

So, in simple words, a mobile network operator is like a big company that helps our phones and tablets talk to each other by using cell towers, base stations, and SIM cards. They make sure we can call, message, and use the internet on our mobile devices.