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Glossary

SM-DP+ (Subscription Manager Data Preparation Plus) 

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What is SM-DP+ (Subscription Manager Data Preparation Plus)?

SM-DP+ (Subscription Manager Data Preparation Plus) is a core component of the consumer Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP) architecture defined by the GSMA. SM-DP+ is responsible for secure storage, preparation, and delivery of operator profiles to eUICC / eSIM devices. It works in tandem with the device’s LPA (Local Profile Assistant) to negotiate and execute over-the-air profile downloads.

In essence, SM-DP+ packages profiles, ensures they are encrypted and signed, and authorizes the requested device to retrieve them securely from the subscription management backend.

How SM-DP+ Fits into the RSP Architecture

  • Profile generation & encryption: SM-DP+ holds encrypted versions of operator profiles and associated credentials, and prepares them for safe transfer.
  • Profile authorization: When a device’s LPA requests a profile, SM-DP+ verifies legitimacy before permitting download.
  • Secure transfer: The profile is delivered securely via download to the target eUICC, using encryption and certificate checks.
  • Lifecycle operations: SM-DP+ also supports deletion, replacement, and updates of profiles over the device’s lifetime.

In the consumer RSP model, SM-DP+ is typically paired with SM-SR (Subscription Manager Secure Routing) to manage secure routing and switching for active profiles.

Why SM-DP+ Is Critical

  • Security & trust: SM-DP+ ensures that only authorized devices can download profiles and that profiles are delivered safely, protecting against fraud or interception.
  • Scalability: It enables operators and profile providers to manage millions of devices simultaneously.
  • Flexibility & control: Operators can manage profile versions, support switching, and revoke access as needed.
  • Interoperability: SM-DP+ conforms to GSMA RSP standards, enabling devices from various manufacturers to work across networks and vendors.

Integration with eSIM / IoT Systems

In modern IoT and eSIM deployments, SM-DP+ often runs within or integrates with subscription management platforms that may also support SAS-SM (Security Accreditation Scheme for Subscription Management). With the newer SGP.32 IoT eSIM standard, SM-DP+ can also interact with eIM (eSIM IoT Manager) modules to support constrained devices and large-scale provisioning.

Providers like Kigen deliver GSMA SAS-SM certified SM-DP+ infrastructure as part of their full RSP stack, guaranteeing secure, compliant profile delivery for both consumer and IoT use cases.