GSM vs. WCDMA

Key Differences



GSM and WCDMA Definitions
Gsm
Gsm
What is GSM?
GSM stands for Global System for Mobile that describes the protocol for 2G (2nd Generation) digital cellular networks used by mobile phones. It is the default global standard for mobile communications since 2014. At present 76% market share is owned by GSM and it is operating in over 219 countries across the world. 2G network replaced the 1G analog cellular networks, and after that GSM came into field that originally described a digital and circuit switched network that is optimized for full duplex voice telephony. GSM is wholly owned by the GSM Association and GSM is the trademark of the company.
What is WCDMA?
WCDMA stands for Wideband Code Division Multiple Access that describes the protocol for 3G digital cellular networks used by mobile phones. It is an air interface standard found in 3G mobile telecommunications networks. In addition to normal cellular services such as voice & audio calling, MMS and text service, it transfers the data at high speeds that results in delivering higher bandwidth applications including streaming and broadband internet access. It uses the same core network that is being used by 2G GSM networks being used globally, allowing dual mode mobile operating along with GSM/EDGE.