GSM is a global standard for mobile communications that has over 500 million subscribers in 168 countries. It uses TDMA and FDMA to allow multiple users to access the network simultaneously. The GSM architecture includes the BTS, BSC, MSC, HLR, VLR, AuC and other components. It operates in frequency bands such as 900 MHz and 1800 MHz with channel bandwidth of 200 kHz. GSM supports voice calls and data transmission and uses technologies like encryption, authentication and SIM cards.