Cell phone unlocking allows GSM-based (Global System for Mobile Communications) cell phones to work on various networks. GSM networks rely on SIM cards installed on users phone to properly recognize a user's account. Unlocking your cell phone can be accomplished with the assistance of your current carrier or though the use of various online cell phone unlocking services. To unlock your service, you will need to ensure you're phone is a GSM-based model and understand some basic unlocking principles.
Instructions
Unlock Your Cell Phone With Carrier Assistance
1. Determine if your account is in good standing. Most companies will unlock your phone if you have had your contract active and in good standing for at least 90 days. Check with your carrier's customer service to determine time required to receive unlock codes.
2. Remove the battery from your phone. Locate the sticker on the underside of your phone and write down the phone's IMEI number. All GSM phones operate with SIM cards and feature IMEI numbers. Please note, if your phone does not have an IMEI number, it is CDMA-based (Code division multiple access ) and will not work for other carriers in an unlocked state. CDMA phones also feature ESN numbers on their stickers.
3. Call your carrier's customer service number. Ask for your phone's unlock code. You will have to provide your carrier account number, password and IMEI number.
4. Write down the unlock code exactly as provided. Typically, several steps will be provided that must be followed exactly as instructed. Unlocking procedures vary by manufacturer.
5. Follow the unlocking procedure exactly as provided.
6. Insert your new carrier's SIM card and power on the device. If signal strength is shown after 15 to 20 seconds, the procedure was successful. Repeat the unlocking procedure if the phone is not yet unlocked.
Unlocking Cell Phones With Online Services
7. Remove your cell phone's battery. Write down the IMEI number found on the sticker located underneath your phone's battery.
8. Choose an online cell phone unlocking service. Two trusted sources that have been in business for years include GSMLiberty and Unlocking.com
9. Find your phone based on manufacturer and model number. You must choose the correct model.
10. Enter in your phone's IMEI number and payment information as directed by the unlocking service. Wait for your unlock code to be emailed to you. Unlock codes using this method can take 1 to 14 days to arrive depending on the phone model.
11. Enter the unlock code, following the unlocking procedure exactly as provided in the email you receive. Turn the phone off and then back on, wait for signal strength to appear to ensure the unlock code was successful.
Tags: your phone, IMEI number, unlock code, your carrier, exactly provided