HLR Carrier Lookup Service - How it works

Number Portability Lookup provides you with a means to find the network of any mobile subscriber from their mobile phone number by HLR Lookup.

Why use HLR Lookups?

The HLR holds the most accurate, up-to-date information on the subscriber

HLR lookups are fast and inexpensive to perform

A lookup can be performed in realtime during call setup or SMS delivery

What is the HLR (Home Location Register)?

The HLR or "Home Location Register" is at the core of every GSM mobile network worldwide. The HLR is a central database of all customers authorised to use the network, and is used by the network in the authentication of a phone when registering with a transmitter, either on the home network, or when roaming abroad.

The SS7 Network

Operators around the world are connected by a network known as the "SS7" or "Signalling System #7" network. This network is used for exchanging information related to setting up a telephone call, number translation, prepaid billing systems, and also forms the backbone of the SMS (short message service) text messaging system.

HLR Query - How it works

By sending the appropriate message over the SS7 signalling network, it is possible to query the home location register (HLR) of any mobile subscriber using their phone number. This process is known as performing a "HLR Lookup" or "HLR Query", and is a fast, effective, and accurate way to determine which network operator currently serves a given mobile telephone number.

Benefits of Number Portability Lookup

Find network carrier information quickly and cheaply

Improve routing for VoIP and SMS traffic

Reduce costs from sending to invalid or disconnected numbers

Easy prepaid credit system - no credit expiration

Getting Started

Number Portability Lookup operates an easy prepaid system with lookups costing less than a penny. You can try us out with a trial account. We're confident you'll find our services to be fast and reliable.