Abstract: A private wireless network (104) and method are provided for facilitating communication between a private branch exchange (PBX) terminal (106) coupled thereto and a public wireless network (102) via an A-link (142). Generally, the private network (104) includes an A-interface (140) through which the PBX terminal (106) is coupled to the public network (102), and a virtual identity module that can be associated with the PBX terminal. Preferably, the module includes subscriber and security information for the PBX terminal (106). In one embodiment, the module comprises information stored in a memory system (100) coupled to the private network (104). Alternatively, the module comprises a card (150) held in a card holder/reader (152) in the private network (104). The public network (102) can be either a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) or a third-generation(3G) network. For a GSM network, the module is a virtual subscriber identity module (SIM).