What is a Network Lock

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SIM lock:

A simlock, Network-Lock, Carrier Lock, imei lock or (master) SUBSIDY lock is really a technical restriction built into CDMA and GSM phones by manufacturers to be used by service providers to restrict using these phones to particular countries and/or networks. This is not like a phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM limitations.


Unlocking Technology:

Normally, a locked mobile will show a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On recent phone models working on Android operating system software, the phone will show a message stating “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it's network locked. Windows phones will show the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Alternative devices may possibly display differing messages such as "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or sometimes the mobile may simply display a message saying that it's locked. Whenever a valid code is typed in, the mobile phone handset will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.


Economics:



More often than not a SIM-locked phone is sold at a considerably reduced cost than an unlocked one mainly because the company plans income via its service. SIM locks are applied on cheaper (pay-as-you-go) mobiles, though discounts on more costly handsets need a subscription that delivers guaranteed income. Unlocked mobiles have a a lot higher market value.


Unlocking Services:

Many companies provide a unlocking service . This service requires people that wish to unlock a mobile phone to give their IMEI number to a unlocking company and frequently they will also require the country and service provider the mobile phone is locked to, frequently sent via email or submitted on their web-site. The supplier will then supply (in return for a fee) a unlock code for the handset. For some makes such as Nokia and Samsung numerous services additionally supply special remote-unlocking software with directions, where a cable is required to remove the SIM lock from home. Such vendors may well email the unlocking code or software which can remotely unlock the unit. The cost for unlocking a cellphone may deviate depending on the network it is locked to and the mobile phone model itself, as every unlock code is unique to each specific device.


Unlocking Service Providers:

Unfortunately there are a lot of dodgy websites working in the cellphone IMEI unlocking industry. As a consequence it is advisable to be certain you find a honest provider for these services. To aid with a search for a trustworthy supplier, we have supplied a checklist just below (and in no particular order) of a few genuine organizations currently offering such services.


Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers: