GPRS: How it works

The General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is an enhancement to the existing GSM network infrastructure and provides a connectionless packet data service. The same cellular base-stations that support voice calls are used to support GPRS and as a consequence GPRS can be used wherever it is possible to make a voice call. GPRS roaming agreements exist with a large number of countries and this means users can use GPRS devices whilst abroad. GPRS is based on internet Protocols (IP) and enables users to utilize a wide range of applications - email and internet and/or intranet resources for instance. With throughput rates of up to 40 Kbit/s, users have a similar access speed to a dial-up modem, but with the convenience of being able to connect from anywhere.