What is a networklock
SIM lock:
A SIM-Lock, NETWORK LOCK, Carrier Lock, imei-lock or (Master) subsidy lock is really a technical limitation built into GSM and CDMA mobile phone devices by manufacturers to be used by carriers to restrict the use of these phones to a particular locations and/or networks. This is as opposed to a cell phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't impose any SIM restrictions.
Many mobile handsets can be unlocked to work with any GSM network provider, though the phone can still display the original branding and may not support features of the new carrier. Aside from the locking, mobile phones may also have firmware installed on them which is specific to the mobile phone network provider. This firmware is installed through the service provider which is separate from the locking mechanism. Almost all cell phones can be unbranded by re-flashing an alternative firmware variation, a process recommended for advanced users only.
Unlocking Technology:
Typically, a locked mobile phone will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On recent phone models running Android operating system software, the phone is going to show a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it's network locked. Windows phones should display the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Other handsets could show varying messages which include "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some instances the phone will simply present a message saying it's locked. Right after a valid code is entered, the phone will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.
Economics:
On many occasions a SIM-locked mobile is offered for sale at a considerably reduced cost than an unlocked one mainly because the company expects income thru its service. SIM locks are applied on cheaper (pay-as-you-go) units, whilst deals on more expensive handsets demand a subscription that provides guaranteed income. Unlocked mobile phones have a greater market value.
Unlocking Services:
A certain amount of companies offer a network cell phone unlocking service . This service requires individuals who want to unlock a mobile phone to give their IMEI number to a unlocking company and quite often they will also ask for the country and cellular network the device is locked to, frequently sent by email or entered on their website. The organization then will provide (for a fee) an unlock code for the mobile phone.
Unlocking Service Providers:
Unfortunately there are lots of fraudulent sites working in the cell phone network unlocking industry. As a consequence it pays to make sure you locate a genuine supplier for these services. To aid with your search for a reputable company, we've provided a listing just below (and in no particular order) of several legit organizations currently offering such services.
Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers:
A SIM-Lock, NETWORK LOCK, Carrier Lock, imei-lock or (Master) subsidy lock is really a technical limitation built into GSM and CDMA mobile phone devices by manufacturers to be used by carriers to restrict the use of these phones to a particular locations and/or networks. This is as opposed to a cell phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't impose any SIM restrictions.
Many mobile handsets can be unlocked to work with any GSM network provider, though the phone can still display the original branding and may not support features of the new carrier. Aside from the locking, mobile phones may also have firmware installed on them which is specific to the mobile phone network provider. This firmware is installed through the service provider which is separate from the locking mechanism. Almost all cell phones can be unbranded by re-flashing an alternative firmware variation, a process recommended for advanced users only.
Unlocking Technology:
Typically, a locked mobile phone will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On recent phone models running Android operating system software, the phone is going to show a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it's network locked. Windows phones should display the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Other handsets could show varying messages which include "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some instances the phone will simply present a message saying it's locked. Right after a valid code is entered, the phone will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.
Economics:
On many occasions a SIM-locked mobile is offered for sale at a considerably reduced cost than an unlocked one mainly because the company expects income thru its service. SIM locks are applied on cheaper (pay-as-you-go) units, whilst deals on more expensive handsets demand a subscription that provides guaranteed income. Unlocked mobile phones have a greater market value.
Unlocking Services:
A certain amount of companies offer a network cell phone unlocking service . This service requires individuals who want to unlock a mobile phone to give their IMEI number to a unlocking company and quite often they will also ask for the country and cellular network the device is locked to, frequently sent by email or entered on their website. The organization then will provide (for a fee) an unlock code for the mobile phone.
Unlocking Service Providers:
Unfortunately there are lots of fraudulent sites working in the cell phone network unlocking industry. As a consequence it pays to make sure you locate a genuine supplier for these services. To aid with your search for a reputable company, we've provided a listing just below (and in no particular order) of several legit organizations currently offering such services.
Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers:
