What is a SIM lock

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SIM lock:

A SIM-Lock, network-lock, carrier-lock, IMEI LOCK or (Master) SUBSIDY lock is a technical constraint built into GSM and CDMA cellular phones by producers to be used by carriers to limit the use of these phones to particular locations and/or networks. This is not like a mobile phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't impose any SIM constraints.SIM locking is really common if subsidized devices are offered with prepaid contracts. You should to note, however, that the technology accompanying with the mobile phone needs to be compatible with the systems being employed by the network carrier. A GSM cellular phone can only work with a GSM carrier and won't function on a CDMA network. Likewise, a CDMA mobile phone will only work with a CDMA service and is not going to operate on a GSM service. Be aware that modern (2013 onwards) pricier mobile phones are equipped to support both CDMA and GSM technologies, letting customers to use their smart phones on virtually any network.


Unlocking Technology:

A phone can be unlocked simply by entering a code provided by the service operator. Different mechanisms contain software working on the device or a computer connected to the handset, hardware devices that connect to the handset or over-the-air by the service provider. Almost always the unlock process is permanent. The code needed to remove all locks from a phone is called the master code, network code key, or multi-lock code. Generally if the device is carrier locked it will generally show one of the following messages: SIM network PIN blocked, Enter lock PIN.


Economics:

In many cases a SIM-locked handset is offered for sale at a significantly lower cost than an unlocked one simply because the service provider plans income through its service. SIM locks are employed on more affordable (pay-as-you-go) handsets, while deals on higher end handsets demand a subscription that offers guaranteed income. Unlocked devices have a increased market value.




Unlocking Services:

Certain businesses provide a online smartphone unlocking service . This service needs people that need to unlock a mobile phone handset to supply their IMEI number to a unlocking company and often they will also ask for the country and network the mobile phone handset is locked to, often sent by email or entered on their web site. The supplier then will provide (for a fee) a unlock code for the handset. For a few brands for instance Nokia and Samsung several services also provide unique remote-unlocking software with instructions, when a cable is needed to remove the SIM lock from home. Such organizations may email the unlocking code or software that should remotely unlock the unit. The price for unlocking a cellphone may deviate based upon the mobile phone network it is locked to and the phone model itself, as each unlock code is unique to each unique handset.


Unlocking Service Providers:

Disappointingly there are a great deal of fraudulent websites operating in the cell-phone network unlocking industry. Consequently it pays off to ensure you find a trustworthy supplier for this service. To aid with a search for a reputable company, we have provided a list beneath (and in no specific order) of a few legit organizations currently offering such services.


Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers: