Area codes are a key part of modern telecommunications, uniquely identifying phone numbers within specific regions. They’re essential for correctly routing calls across the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
Consider area code 872, for example. It’s one of the area codes serving Chicago, Illinois. Specifically, area code 872 is an “overlay” area code that covers the same geographic region as the 312 and 773 area codes.
This article will give you a comprehensive overview of area code 872, its history, how it was implemented, and why it’s relevant to Chicago and the surrounding areas.
What is area code 872?
Area code 872 is what’s known as an overlay code. That means that it serves the same geographic area as some existing area codes. In this case, 872 is overlaid on top of area codes 312 and 773 in Chicago.
The reason for overlay codes is to make sure there are enough phone numbers to go around in areas where demand is high.
Area codes are part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), and they help make sure calls get routed correctly from one area to another.
With the rise in popularity of mobile phones and the increasing population density in certain areas, the demand for new area codes keeps growing.
Where is area code 872?
Area code 872 is in Chicago, Illinois. It’s one of the area codes that serves the city, along with 312, 773, and 847.
Chicago is in Cook County, and 100% of area code 872 is located within Cook County. While it’s not the only area code for Chicago, area code 872 covers around 97% of the city.
If you get a call from an 872 number, it’s almost certainly someone calling from Chicago.
A little history of area code 872
Area code 872 has been around since November 7, 2009. It was the 343rd area code to be introduced in the United States, and one of eight to go live in 2009 alone.
Illinois has thirteen area codes. It currently has seventeen.
The reason for adding 872 was that the area codes already serving Chicago – 312 and 773 – were running out of available phone numbers. When a particular area runs out of phone numbers to assign, the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) will often introduce a new area code to alleviate the problem.
How the Introduction of 872 Changed Local Calling in Chicago
The introduction of the 872 area code meant that everyone in the 312, 773, and 872 needed to change the way they dialed the phone.
Key Changes in Dialing Procedures
Before the introduction of 872, Chicagoans only needed to dial seven digits to call someone within their own area code. The addition of 872 meant that 10-digit dialing — dialing the area code plus the seven-digit phone number — became mandatory for all calls, even local ones.
If you’re in the 312, 773, or 872 area codes, you must dial ten digits to reach anyone, including your next-door neighbor. It’s important to dial correctly to make sure your calls go through.
Telephone Carrier Usage and Prefixes
The 872 area code is divided up among a variety of telephone service providers. Here’s a breakdown:
- 31% of the prefixes are assigned to a telecommunications company (telco).
- 31% are used for landlines.
- 62% are used for wireless services.
- 6% are unknown.
Prefixes play a key role in identifying the specific telephone company providing service to a given number. For example, the 872-228 prefix is used in Chicago and assigned to Bandwidth.com CLEC, LLC – IL. The prefix 872-222 is used in Chicago and assigned to Neutral Tandem-illinois, LLC. And the 872-212 prefix is used in Chicago and assigned to Teleport Communications America, LLC – IL.
These prefixes are essential for routing calls correctly and for identifying the carrier associated with a particular phone number.
Why have an 872 area code?
Having an 872 area code offers a few distinct advantages, especially if you live or do business in Chicago.
Key advantages of the 872 area code
- More phone numbers. As Chicago’s population and business sectors grow, the 872 area code helps ensure there are enough phone numbers to go around.
- Supports local and international communication. Whether you’re calling a neighbor down the street or a client overseas, the 872 area code supports various communication options.
- Crucial for business and residents. The 872 area code is essential for meeting the communication needs of Chicago’s businesses and residents, making it easier to connect and stay in touch.
Scams and security concerns
Any area code can be used by scammers to trick you. They might use a number from area code 872 to hide their real location.
To avoid these scams:
- Never give personal information to someone who calls you.
- Always check to see if the caller is who they say they are.
- Don’t trust callers who demand immediate payment or financial details.
- Add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry.
It’s crucial to stay alert to phishing attempts and identity theft. If something feels off, be extra cautious.
What’s next for area code 872?
As technology evolves and new communication methods emerge, the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) must ensure that area codes remain adaptable and relevant. Area code 872, like other area codes, is well-suited to accommodate new technologies like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and cloud-based systems.
Telecommunications are constantly changing, so the area code system has to change, too. NANPA and the telecommunications industry will continue to monitor usage trends and technological advancements to make sure the numbering system can meet the needs of consumers and businesses in the years to come.
How to get an 872 area code number for personal or business use
Want to get your hands on an 872 area code number? Luckily, it’s pretty straightforward.
You can get an 872 number through a local phone provider, or you can choose a virtual phone service. Virtual phone services are often cheaper and more flexible than traditional landlines, and you can often forward calls to your existing cell phone or other device.
The role of area code 872 in today’s telecommunications
Area code 872 is an integral part of Chicago’s communication infrastructure, and it has been since its inception in 2009.
One of the key advantages of having a phone number with the 872 area code is simply its availability. As other Chicago area codes become fully utilized, the 872 area code ensures that new phone lines and services can continue to be activated within the city.
In Summary
Area code 872 is an important part of Chicago’s telecommunications system. It’s one of the ways the city ensures there are enough phone numbers to go around, and it supports Chicago’s growing communication needs.
Knowing how area codes work can help you use your phone and other devices more effectively.