What is Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP)? Consumer and M2M solution

eSIM changes the method of connecting to mobile networks to get internet access. Thanks to eSIM remote provisioning(ERP), who blessed us with this advanced technology without being disconnected from any type of services we gain during our normal life. It allows you to manage all your device connections remotely, no matter where you are. Suppose you have devices in different countries or need to switch networks quickly. Remote SIM provisioning is so much more flexible and easy to maintain network connections remotely.

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SIM card provisioning 

SIM card provisioning means registering the SIM on a database that verifies its identity and permissions. In SIM card provisioning, a SIM card is prepared for use in a device and connected to a cellular network. This can be done remotely or physically on the basis of a SIM card.

What is Remote SIM provisioning? 

Remote SIM provisioning(RSP) is the process defined by the GSMA to manage and switch SIM profiles on embedded SIM cards remotely. It allows for carrier changes over-the-air (OTA) without the need for a new SIM card. RSP enhances mobile connectivity through seamless carrier selection and profile management.

RSP made it possible to change a SIM profile without physically changing the whole SIM card or using the Multi-IMSI feature, which required the SIM profile to be already loaded onto the SIM before deployment.

Devices remain connected and secure regardless of location, thanks to their platform's seamless management of eSIM profiles.

Types of Remote SIM Provisioning 

Due to the vast demand in the market, remote SIM provisioning announced its two categories as 

• M2M solution 
• Consumer Solution 

The M2M solution (RSP for M2M)

The main components of M2M solutions are : 

Subscription Manager-Data Preparation or SM-DP:  

A primary function of the SM-DP address is to create, preserve, and safeguard operator profiles. It secures and stores the profiles on the server to allow them to be allocated, downloaded, and installed at the target eUICC. 

Secure Routing – Subscription Manager (SM-SR)

The SM-SR manages the enable, disable and delete states of profiles and ensures that profiles sent to the eUICC via the SM-DP are securely transmitted. 

embedded universal integrated circuit cards, eUICC

In an eUICC, there may be one or more IMSI profiles, which can be encrypted. An eUICC sets up a secure data channel (HTTPS) with an SM-SR. The eUICC stores a profile for each physically detachable SIM card. 

RSP for Consumer 

The M2M solution was primarily used for the development of consumer solutions. In the first stage, network operators enabled connectivity on companion devices, including wearables and smartphone support in the second stage. RSP for consumers implies all control in end users through the UI. Here are the four main components of consumer remote SIM provisioning:

Subscription Manager (Data Preparation +, or SM-DP+)

It provides protection and security to the necessary operator credentials. SM-DP+ is not only responsible for data preparation but also handles the Secure Routing of subscription data from the Subscription Manager (SM) to the appropriate eUICC.

Subscription Manager (Discovery Server, or SM-DS) 

Since devices can connect through different networks with varying addresses, this capability is essential. SM-DS addresses this by allowing the SM-DP+ to post alerts to a secure noticeboard, which devices can access to receive these alerts. This way, when new profile data is available for download to the eUICC, the SM-DS notifies the LPA and ensures a smooth update process.

Local Profile Assistant (LPA )

LPA is a necessary component for devices using eSIM.Through LPA, eUICC-encrypted profiles can be downloaded.

Embedded universal integrated circuit cards, or eUICC

It functions the same in the M2M solution. With eUICC, users can download and activate new SIM profiles over the air (OTA) without needing to insert a physical SIM card.

Benefits of remote SIM provisioning 

Remote SIM provisioning holds the following key benefits:

• Global Deployment: As your devices move to different places, the SIM with SIM provisioning service will change profiles and carriers with the available networks. 
• IoT future-proofing: If your carrier shuts down or reallocates bandwidth, remote SIM provisioning allows you to switch to a new carrier remotely. Without eUICC or Multi-IMSI, you'd need to replace all SIMs across your deployed devices physically.
• Streamlined Operations: Changing SIM profiles and making other changes can be achieved remotely without changing SIM cards physically.
• Remote Access: Manually replacing SIMs is costly and time-consuming, and it requires the purchase of new SIMs and field visits to install them. Remote SIM provisioning also leads to significant downtime for customers, disrupting their business and increasing overall expenses.  

Does Multi-IMSI use remote SIM provisioning?

A multi-IMSI SIM can be used by IoT businesses to change SIM profiles, but the SIM doesn't have to be provisioned with the new profile. An eSIM or eUICC is the only mechanism for remotely provisioning SIM profiles. In simple terms, with eUICC, You remotely add a new SIM profile, while with Multi-IMSI, you remotely change an existing SIM profile, which is not similar to remote provisioning.

It is necessary to preinstall multi-IMSI software on SIM cards, as well as change carrier agreements over time.

What is the difference between eSIM and eUICC?

In an aspect of Remote SIM provisioning, we say eSIM and eUICC somehow work similarly and are the same thing. But in reality, these are two different terms and have different features.

Embedded SIM is the hardware of the SIM, while eUICC is the software part. eSIM stores different profiles and makes it easy for the user to switch between different carriers without the hassle of physically swapping SIM cards. eUICC makes it possible for eSIM to store multiple profiles.

Uses of Remote SIM Provisioning

The following are the main applications that RSP holds:

Consumer Electronics

eSIM technology is now becoming common around the World because it is more easy and flexible to use. Smartphones, tablets and wearables are one of those consumer electronics adopting it more concisely so as the remote SIM provisioning is used as it comes along eSIM.

Automotive Industry

Using remote SIM provisioning, connected cars can switch between networks as they move from region to region, ensuring uninterrupted navigation, telematics, and entertainment services.

IoT (Internet of Things)

A remote SIM provisioning solution is perfect for IoT devices, such as smart meters, security systems, and connected appliances.

Telecommunications 

Mobile network operators can offer more flexible and user-friendly services by leveraging eSIM technology and remote SIM provisioning.