Cellular networks are different from computer networks found in a typical home or office.
The two most common cellular networks are known as Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). CDMA is commonly found in the United States, whereas GSM is used worldwide and originated in Europe. Is your mobile device compatible with both CDMA and GSM networks? More modern devices, such as Apple's iPhone, are compatible with both networks, while many other devices are not without replacing the SIM (subscriber identity module) card. Mobile devices are typically tied to a mobile service provider that uses one or more types of cellular networks.
Despite the differences in cellular networks, are the technology and organization of the cellular network similar and conceptually the same? What is a mobile switching center? What is the detailed process a mobile device uses to communicate with a cell site? Read the "Cellular Networks Overview" below to answer these questions.
References
Ayers, R., Brothers, S., & Jansen, W. (2014). Guidelines on mobile device forensics: NIST Special Publication 800-101, Revision 1): National Institute of Standards and Technology. http://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-101r1.pdf
Resources
- For a quick read, see this excerpt from NIST 800-101, Cellular Network Characteristics.
- Or see the complete Guidelines on Mobile Device Forensics.