diànxìn

Diànxìn, written in Chinese as 电信 and pronounced with the pinyin diànxìn, is the term used to refer to telecommunications—the transmission of information over distance through electrical, optical, radio, or satellite channels. The field covers a broad range of services, including fixed-line and mobile telephony, broadband internet access, data communications, satellite communications, and related value-added services such as cloud computing and the Internet of Things.

In practice, diànxìn infrastructure underpins everyday communication and digital services. Networks have evolved from traditional copper-wire systems to digital, packet-switched networks, with widespread deployment of fiber-optic backbones and nationwide mobile networks spanning multiple generations of technology (2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G). The industry also encompasses network operations, service provision, and equipment manufacturing.

In China, the sector is dominated by major operators such as China Telecom, China Unicom, and China Mobile. Regulation and licensing are overseen by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), which handles spectrum allocation, network permissions, and cybersecurity policies. Internationally, telecommunications services align with standards and coordination provided by organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

The diànxìn industry plays a crucial role in economic development and social connectivity, supporting everyday communications, commerce, and digital public services. Ongoing trends include 5G deployment, fiber-network expansion, satellite communications initiatives, and increased emphasis on data security, privacy, and resilience of critical communications infrastructure.