How to Upgrade Verizon Wireless Towers

A PRL is often referred to as a list of towers.

Verizon Wireless, like all Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) carriers, uses a preferred roaming list, or PRL, in the phone to determine which radio frequencies to use in which areas. This list will allow the device to quickly locate both Verizon's towers and the towers of other carriers if the phone needs to roam. Verizon updates this PRL file regularly as new towers are installed and old towers have their frequency changed, but the user has to initiate the download to get the file onto the phone.

Instructions

1. Dial *228 on your Verizon mobile device and press "Send" or "Talk."

2. Press the number 2 when you are given a list of options.

3. Listen to the phone until your hear a message saying the upgrade is complete. Some devices may reset themselves here, while on others you may just have to hang up the call. Your PRL list is now updated.

Tips & Warnings

• Updating the Verizon Wireless towers is especially important if you are traveling to areas with poor service, as the phone will need an updated list to find any new towers that were erected to fill in dead spots.

References

• MIT Information Services and Technology: Cellular Telephones--Verizon Wireless Tips
• Technipages: Verizon Wireless--Perform Phone Software Update for List of Towers
• Phone Scoop: PRL