Plain-language definition
Interactive menus on any GSM phone, with no data connection, such as *123#.
Technical definition
USSD is a session-based service carried in MAP ProcessUnstructuredSS and UnstructuredSS operations over TCAP; a USSD gateway maps sessions to HTTP/REST applications.
Why it matters
USSD powers mobile money, self-care and public services in markets where data access is limited.
Last reviewed 2026-09-12 by the Guardivia QoS Engineering Team. Product facts on this page describe current capabilities; items marked “where supported”, “optional”, “integration” or “consultancy” are confirmed per deployment.