In a virtual world, what defines an operator?

In the hard-wired world the answer has always been clear – they own the RAN or exchanges, they have Core nodes, and licences to operate telecom services. But as the network becomes virtual the definition becomes blurred. More parties become involved, the business model becomes more complex, and operational responsibilities become fragmented. And where is the core network anyway? If it is on a cloud system it could move from country to country in an instant. Whose jurisdiction is it under? This presentation explores some of the questions that should be asked by those involved in operating or governing virtual telecom networks.