Porting Authorisation Code
Encyclopedia
Porting Authorisation Code (PAC) is a unique identifier
(normally 9 characters long and in the format "ABC123456") used by some mobile network operators to facilitate mobile number portability
(MNP). This allows users to retain their mobile telephone number when switching operators.
by Ofcom
. On 25 July 2003, Ofcom introduced the General Conditions of Entitlement which apply to all communications networks and service providers in the UK.
Condition 18 requires all providers to provide number portability but only to subscribers of publicly available telephone services who request it. Number portability must be provided as soon as practicable and on reasonable terms to subscribers and bilateral porting arrangements between providers must accord with agreed processes.
If the customer is on a fixed term contract, they will often be expected to pay any outstanding sums owed to the end of the contract before they can port their number. Some mobile phone companies can charge a fee to move the customer's number. This is usually no more than £25. The provider must issue a PAC within 2 hours of the request even if the customer has not paid their bill.
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See also
Unique identifier
With reference to a given set of objects, a unique identifier is any identifier which is guaranteed to be unique among all identifiers used for those objects and for a specific purpose...
(normally 9 characters long and in the format "ABC123456") used by some mobile network operators to facilitate mobile number portability
Mobile number portability
Mobile number portability enables mobile telephone users to retain their mobile telephone numbers when changing from one mobile network operator to another.- General overview :MNP is implemented in different ways across the globe...
(MNP). This allows users to retain their mobile telephone number when switching operators.
United Kingdom
Telecommunications service is regulated in the UKUnited Kingdom
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages...
by Ofcom
Ofcom
Ofcom is the government-approved regulatory authority for the broadcasting and telecommunications industries in the United Kingdom. Ofcom was initially established by the Office of Communications Act 2002. It received its full authority from the Communications Act 2003...
. On 25 July 2003, Ofcom introduced the General Conditions of Entitlement which apply to all communications networks and service providers in the UK.
Condition 18 requires all providers to provide number portability but only to subscribers of publicly available telephone services who request it. Number portability must be provided as soon as practicable and on reasonable terms to subscribers and bilateral porting arrangements between providers must accord with agreed processes.
- A current Service Provider must give a customer a Porting Authorisation Code (PAC) or a reason why it cannot be issued within 2 working days of their request.
- A PAC is valid for a period of 30 calendar days and the customer's request must be submitted to their new Service Provider within that time.
- A number can then be transferred anytime between 2 and 32 calendar days from the date the PAC is issued.
If the customer is on a fixed term contract, they will often be expected to pay any outstanding sums owed to the end of the contract before they can port their number. Some mobile phone companies can charge a fee to move the customer's number. This is usually no more than £25. The provider must issue a PAC within 2 hours of the request even if the customer has not paid their bill.
India
In India, the rules for Number portability are prescribed by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of IndiaTRAI
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India is the independent regulator of the telecommunications business in India. -History:...
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- You are allowed to move to another mobile service provider only after 90 days of the date of activation of your mobile connection or from the date of last porting of your mobile number, which ever is applicable.
- You are allowed to change mobile service provider within the same service area only.
- If you are a postpaid subscriber, please ensure that you have paid all the dues as per your last bill (You will have to sign an undertaking in the Porting Form also).
- If you are a Pre-paid subscriber, please note that the balance amount of talk time, if any, at the time of porting will lapse.
See also
- Migration Authorisation CodeMigration Authorisation CodeIn the United Kingdom a Migration Authorization Code is a 17 to 19-character unique identifier code used by DSL customers when they wish to switch internet service provider...
- Local number portabilityLocal number portabilityLocal number portability for fixed lines, and full mobile number portability for mobile phone lines, refers to the ability to transfer either an existing fixed-line or mobile telephone number assigned by a local exchange carrier and reassign it to another carrier...
- Mobile Number PortabilityMobile number portabilityMobile number portability enables mobile telephone users to retain their mobile telephone numbers when changing from one mobile network operator to another.- General overview :MNP is implemented in different ways across the globe...