Mobile operators are typically divided into those who own the physical network and those who buy access. As a consumer it is useful to know which physical network is being used as the map of coverage will tell you what type of service you can expect.

The following is some information about the types of mobile providers there are in Belgium.

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)

A Mobile Network Operator (MNO) is a company which owns the towers and infrastructure for a mobile business. In Belgium there are three MNOs:

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)

A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) doesn’t own the physical infrastructure, but pays to use the network of someone else. They are therefore focusing on the service to the end user rather than building the network. Downside to this is they have little control over the operation of the network itself, so they are at the mercy of the actual owner.