A virtual operator and method for performing authentication and service translation. The virtual operator assigns first and second identifiers to subscribers. The virtual operator updates the second identifier when the service provider corresponding to the second identifier changes. When the virtual operator receives a request for authentication, the virtual operator forwards the authentication request to a serving network for authentication. When the virtual operator receives a service request, the virtual operator selects, using network optimization criteria, a network to provide the requested service. The virtual operator translates network protocols when the network forwarding authentication or service request uses a network protocol different from the network performing authentication or the requested service.