Can You Run an Open GSM Network?

OpenCell asks: "Here in Vancouver, cellphone companies are charging ridiculous amounts for basic cellphone plans. I'm wondering if it's possible to run an open/almost free GSM network on a small college campus. Assuming we could find the hardware and get the rights, is there open source software out there to handle most aspects for something like this?"

Comments

Expensive

[talornin]

This I think, would not be possible.

You might be able to dig up, slap togeather and in some way get into an operating state, the needed basic components for a GSM network (MSC, HLR/VLR, SMSC etc) but you will most probably not be allowed to transmit on any frequency that normal handsets can use, and even if your country doesnt regulate or give you permission to do it you will still be faced with the issues of getting an IMSI range, a number series, implementning number portability (it applicable), producing SIM-cards etc. And as pointed out already, you will probably not be able to get a roaming agreement with any operator, thus your users would have to change SIM to use your network (or have a second handset).

All in all I think its best to leave this project be. GSM networks are not cheap or open. Period.