What is 5G SA/NSA/SUCI SIM Card? Understanding 5G NR ISIM Cards
5G SA SIM Card
5G NSA SIM Card
5G SUCI SIM Card
5G NR ISIM Cards

As a trusted manufacturer and supplier of advanced SIM solutions, HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO.,LIMITED specializes in 5G SA/NSA/SUCI SIM cards and 5G NR ISIM cards. These technologies are the backbone of secure, high-speed connectivity in next-generation networks. Below, we break down their definitions, programming methods, and why HKCARD is your ideal partner.

1. 5G SA/NSA/SUCI SIM Cards: Core Definitions

5G NSA (Non-Standalone) SIM Cards

NSA mode leverages existing 4G infrastructure (EPC core network) for control functions while using 5G NR (New Radio) for high-speed data transmission . NSA SIM cards enable faster 5G deployment by bridging legacy networks and new 5G capabilities.

5G SA (Standalone) SIM Cards

SA mode operates independently on a 5G core network (5GC), offering ultra-low latency (<1 ms), enhanced security, and support for advanced applications like autonomous vehicles and industrial IoT . SA SIM cards are optimized for future-proof networks.

SUCI (Subscription Concealed Identifier)

SUCI encrypts user identities (SUPI) to prevent eavesdropping, a critical feature in 5G security. SUCI-enabled SIM cards use public key encryption (e.g., ECIES) to protect IMSI during authentication, ensuring privacy in vulnerable scenarios like roaming .

5G NR ISIM Cards

5G NR ISIM cards integrate the ISIM (IP Multimedia Services Identity Module) application, enabling VoNR (Voice over New Radio) and advanced IP-based services. These cards support multi-access edge computing (MEC) and network slicing, essential for enterprise and consumer applications.

2. How to Program 5G SA/NSA/SUCI SIM Cards

Programming these cards requires expertise in telecom standards and cryptographic protocols. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Initialize the SIM Card

  • Use a programmable blank SIM card (e.g., HKCARD’s USIM white card/ USIM blank card) compatible with 3GPP Release 15/16 specifications .
  • Load the telecom operator’s profile, including ICCID, IMSI, and Ki (authentication key).

Step 2: Configure SA/NSA Parameters

  • For NSA: Set parameters to align with 4G EPC and 5G NR dual connectivity.
  • For SA: Configure 5GC-specific parameters like AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) and SMF (Session Management Function).

Step 3: Implement SUCI Encryption

  • Integrate the Milenage or TUAK algorithm to generate RES (Response) and AUTN (Authentication Token) during AKA (Authentication and Key Agreement) .
  • Use ECIES to encrypt SUPI into SUCI, ensuring end-to-end protection.

Step 4: Test and Certify

  • Validate interoperability with 5G base stations (gNB) and core networks using tools like pySim .
  • Ensure compliance with GSMA and 3GPP standards.

3. Why Choose HKCARD as Your 5G SIM Card Supplier?

Technical Expertise

  • HKCARD provides 5G NR ISIM cards with pre-integrated SUCI encryption and support for network slicing. Our cards are compatible with global 5G frequency bands (Sub-6 GHz and mmWave) .

Scalable Production

  • We offer bulk orders of USIM white card / USIM BLANK Card (blank SIM cards) tailored for IoT, smart cities, and industrial automation .

Security Assurance

  • Our SIM cards embed advanced security features:
    • AES-256 for data encryption.
    • Secure Element (SE) for tamper-resistant key storage.
    • Compliance with GDPR and CC EAL5+ standards.

End-to-End Support

  • From card customization (e.g., ICCID/IMSI encoding) to OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, HKCARD ensures seamless integration with your 5G ecosystem.

Conclusion: Partner with HKCARD for Future-Ready 5G Solutions

As 5G networks evolve, the demand for SA/NSA/SUCI SIM cards and 5G NR ISIM solutions will surge. HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO.,LIMITED stands out with:

  • High-volume manufacturing of certified blank SIM cards.
  • Customizable security protocols for diverse use cases.
  • 24/7 technical support to accelerate your 5G deployment.

For OEMs, telecom operators, and IoT developers, HKCARD is the trusted partner to unlock the full potential of 5G.

Contact us today to request samples or discuss your project requirements!

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