A Comprehensive EaaS Overview for Telecom Stakeholders

Between the rapid growth of the embedded SIM (eSIM) market and the rise of 5G, it’s clear that the telecommunications sector will soon look very different. Experts predict eSIM will continue to increase in value at a compound annual growth rate of 5.1% between 2025 and 2033, and widespread 5G networks mean users can connect more devices than ever before.

Mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) need to adapt their technologies to keep up with the changing tide. That’s where Entitlement as a Service (EaaS) can help your business fill some key gaps. Here, we explain everything you need to know about the EaaS platform from CSG.

What is Entitlements-as-a-Service (EaaS)?

Entitlements-as-a-Service refers to a managed technology platform that enables communication service providers (CSPs) to ensure subscribers have the right cloud entitlements, or access permissions, to the services included in their plan. Additionally, an EaaS platform prevents users who do not pay for specific services from accessing them.

Here’s a quick overview of how it works:

1. Device initiation: The user’s device checks for service availability and sends a request to the entitlement server.
2. Authentication: The entitlement server uses the Extensible Authentication Protocol-Authentication and Key Agreement (EAP-AKA) protocol to securely verify the device’s identity and carrier bundle through an Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (AAA) server.
3. Authorization: Once the device has been authenticated, the entitlement server queries the service carrier’s business support system (BSS) to check the device’s subscriber plan and service permissions.
4. Response delivery: The entitlement server processes the BSS response and sends an entitlement decision back to the user’s device, which displays whether the service has been enabled or disabled.

What is an entitlement server?

A device entitlement server (DES) manages the entitlements of one or more Internet Protocol multimedia subsystems (IMSs). An IMS is the framework that makes delivering multimedia services—including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), video calls and more—possible over cellular and internet networks.

It’s important to outline the difference between an entitlement server and an AAA server. The primary function of an entitlement server is to enforce the rules regarding which premium services a device or user can access, then configure and orchestrate those services on the device. An AAA server has three main functions:

• Authentication: Validates the identity of the user or device
• Authorization: Grants relevant network access permissions
• Accounting: Tracks usage of services for accurate billing

While an entitlement server is a core piece of network infrastructure, an AAA server is usually a third-party service.

What are SaaS entitlements?

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) entitlements are the access rights, privileges, permissions and authorizations granted to a software user. Essentially, SaaS entitlements govern what resources and systems users are permitted to access. While they are similar in name to EaaS entitlements, SaaS entitlements specifically apply to software applications and networks.

Software entitlement management is critical for organizations because it prevents unauthorized users and guests from accessing sensitive resources. Cellular EaaS entitlements enable a subscriber to use the services they are paying their carrier for.

The business benefits of EaaS

EaaS has many advantages over traditional entitlement management methods that make it more appropriate for the eSIM era.

Enhanced user experiences drive revenue growth

EaaS helps consumers access the services they want without the same hassle as traditional SIM technology. One-click eSIM transfers provide a seamless experience for users looking to switch devices without the need for extra support from the help desk. Popular services are available by default for convenient provisioning.

With EaaS from CSG, you can give your consumers the latest features and functionalities before they ask. Auto-updates ensure users can access new services immediately after the official device OEM release—no waiting or additional fees required.

Faster time-to-market quickly diversifies offerings

With CSG’s EaaS platform powered by NetLync, you can deploy new integrations in as little as four weeks. Users gain access to entitlement features and use cases, including but not limited to:

• Phone number registration
• iMessage
• FaceTime
• Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE)
• Wi-Fi calling
• 5G connectivity
• eSIM quick transfer for iOS
• Device transfer for Android

You can release new use cases and integrations as soon as they are available to give your subscribers the best experience possible.

Reliable performance enables smooth scalability

With our robust EaaS platform, you can adjust to changing network and device traffic as your business needs increase. We can handle your service needs whether you’re just starting out or you’re experiencing significant growth.

Robust security provides peace of mind

Protecting your subscribers’ data is critical. Our solution complies with essential data security regulations, including:

• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): The GDPR governs how businesses can collect, process and transfer data from European Union-based users.
• Telecommunications (Security) Act 2021: This United Kingdom-based act increases carriers’ responsibility to mitigate risk and report data breaches to the appropriate authorities and affected individuals.
• Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act: In January of 2025, Section 105 of this law was updated to require telecom operators to strengthen network security against attacks or intercepts.

Key entitlement services strategies you should know

As with any emerging technology, a strategic approach to entitlement services is essential for delivering results. Two of the most promising strategies MNOs and MVNOs can use include:

Revenue diversification

EaaS can help you go beyond standard voice, data and short message service (SMS) plans to open more revenue streams and improve resiliency. Provide multiple tiers of service with premium add-ons like 5G, VoLTE and VoWiFi to encourage upsells, and add value with security enhancements and priority network access.

This strategy can help you increase your average revenue per user (ARPU) and keep more subscribers on your network by making you the most comprehensive option on the market. With fewer competitors offering the same menu of features and services, users will want to stick to your brand to maintain their existing service level—and you’ll reduce costs by retaining more users.

Operational efficiency

Automated entitlement management platforms like EaaS by CSG can help your company reduce costs and complexity for enhanced efficiency in multiple areas. Cloud-native deployment capabilities enable rapid deployment of new features and services to users, and automated provisioning eliminates manual processes and human error for increased savings. You can also enable self-service capabilities to give consumers a greater sense of control over their services.

This strategy can help you reduce operational expenses with automation and streamlined workflows. Get more services to market and scale quickly to meet demand and improve the overall experience.

Choose CSG for simple cellular entitlement management

At CSG, we’re dedicated to delivering real business outcomes for more than 1,000 consumer-centric brands across various industries and sectors. That’s why we develop purpose-driven SaaS solutions specifically for MNOs and MVNOs.