What is GSM technology?

GSM technology features

When you hear the buzzword “GSM,” what comes to mind? If you’re not sure, don’t worry. Cell phone technology may not be at the top of your list, particularly if you live in the U.S. However, GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) is important and the rest of the world would agree. GSM technology is the standard for more than 200 countries.

Why is it important to you? Consider some features that GSM offers you.

• When using cell phones for business outside of the U.S., you can often use your GSM-enabled cell phone without needing to buy or rent another and pay expensive per minute charges.
• GSM uses a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) as its “brain”. This smart card is removable and often transferable to another phone, with your contact numbers preserved.
• Built-in security is not infallible, but is generally considered better than some other network technologies.
• GSM cell phones, unlike some of their competition, are totally digital, providing excellent voice and text messaging quality.
• GSM pioneered SMS (Short Message Service). You are probably more familiar with its common name, "text messaging." Most of its competition has adopted this service, but “purists” often consider GSM to be better.

Considered original second generation technology, the newest cell phones using GSM with some enhancements are often considered “3G,” state-of-the-art third generation systems. The network itself is rather complex, but has a wonderful reputation for reliability and quality.