Subscription management refers to the process and technology that allow a device’s mobile subscription to be remotely managed, updated, or switched between network operators without needing to replace the physical SIM card.
In mobile and IoT ecosystems, subscription management is made possible through Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP), a GSMA-defined framework that enables the secure download, activation, and management of operator profiles on an eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card) or eSIM.
It involves multiple secure components and systems:
• Profile creation and storage – A mobile network operator (MNO) prepares and encrypts a subscriber profile, which contains network credentials and authentication data.
• Profile delivery – Using platforms such as SM-DP+ (Subscription Manager Data Preparation Plus) or SM-DP (Subscription Manager Data Preparation), the profile is securely transmitted to the target device.
• Profile installation and activation – The device’s LPA (Local Profile Assistant) or SM-SR (Subscription Manager Secure Routing) manages the installation, activation, or deactivation of the subscription on the eUICC.
• Remote updates and lifecycle management – Operators can update, switch, or delete profiles securely over the air, enabling flexibility and long-term device connectivity.
• Flexibility and convenience – Enables devices to switch between mobile operators or service plans remotely, without physical SIM swaps.
• Global connectivity for IoT – Allows manufacturers and service providers to deploy connected devices worldwide and activate local operator profiles on demand.
• Reduced operational costs – Minimizes logistics and simplifies device manufacturing by removing the need for regional SIM variants.
• Enhanced security and compliance – Uses GSMA-certified processes and encryption to ensure secure handling of subscriber data and network credentials.
• Scalability and interoperability – Subscription management systems follow GSMA RSP standards, allowing interoperability between networks, eUICCs, and management platforms.
In IoT and M2M environments, subscription management supports mass device provisioning and lifecycle operations across globally distributed fleets.
It is a core function of RSP platforms, which include systems such as:
• SM-DP / SM-DP+ – For secure profile preparation and delivery.
• SM-SR (Secure Routing) – For profile activation, enablement, and management.
• eIM (eSIM IoT Manager) – Introduced in the GSMA SGP.32 IoT eSIM standard, simplifying subscription management for constrained IoT devices.
Kigen’s SAS-SM certified infrastructure supports subscription management across consumer, M2M, and IoT deployments, enabling secure and scalable connectivity at every stage of the device lifecycle.