Home location register service  service is a vital component of mobile telecommunications networks. Without it, cellular devices wouldn’t be able to connect to the network or use their services. It’s responsible for verifying subscriber information, providing access to specific services, and routing calls. It is also crucial to protecting customers from fraud.

A home location register (HLR) is a database that includes details of subscribers authorized to use the global system for mobile communications (GSM) core network. This database holds relevant information that can range from a person’s phone number to their current location. HLRs are maintained by a mobile network operator, with each network having its own database.

HLR Services Explained: How Home Location Register Improves Mobile Communication

Each 2G and 3G network has its own HLR, and each 4G and 5G network has a home subscriber service (HSS), unified database server, or visitor location register (VLR). Whenever a device connects to the cellular network, a Message Switching Center checks the network provider’s HLR using the subscriber’s International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number to find out how to charge them for their services and how to route transmissions to and from the device.

Various companies offer HLR lookup services that provide businesses with access to this data. They will usually charge a fee for each lookup request. These services are valuable tools in the fight against fraud, especially when used in combination with other analytics techniques such as data enrichment, device fingerprinting, velocity checks and behavioral analysis. They are essential to reducing fraud rates and improving customer experience.