How to Use a Cell Phone on a Different Network

Activating your cell phone on a different network requires an unlock code.

The ability to use your cell phone on a network other than your current network is convenient for those who wish to use another service provider without purchasing a new phone. Whether you are traveling internationally and would like to use another network for a short period of time, or switching cellular phone networks, you will need to unlock your phone in order to use your phone on another network. Unlocking your device requires you to enter a code that will enable you to use your phone on a different carrier.

Instructions

1. Contact your phone company. Contact the customer service department of your current phone company. Notify your company that you would like to unlock your phone. Simply ask your phone company for the unlock code and they will provide you a code that will unlock your phone.

2. Follow the unlock instructions. Follow the instructions provided by your wireless carrier to enter the unlock code into your phone. After properly entering the code, you will be able to use your phone on another network.

3. Contact your new service provider. Contact the customer service department of your new service provider and activate service.

4. Remove your old SIM card. Remove the backing of your phone and slide the SIM card out of its slot after powering your phone off.

5. Insert your new SIM card. Insert your new carrier's SIM card into your phone and power your phone on. Provided you have activated service on the new network, your phone should begin working on the new network immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure you are in good standing with your current company in order to receive the unlock code.

• You may be required to pay a fee to have your phone unlocked, in addition to activation fees with your new carrier.