APN

APN Configuration

APN stands for Access Point Name. It’s part of every mobile devices’ settings. The name of the virtual gateway between a mobile network and another network, the internet. You can think of it as a virtual door between two networks.
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How to configure an APN

Setting the right APN allows your device to set up a connection the Internet. Insert the Simbase SIM when your device is powered off, after which you can power your device back on. The next step is to configure your device to use the Simbase Access Point Name (APN) to load the configuration with the right settings. In many devices this can be set via the settings (phone/router) SMS or directly in the firmware. Consult your device’s documentation on how to configure the APN. 

General configuration

iOS Configuration

Android Configuration

General configuration

Configuration for most devices

Simbase APN Settings

The following settings must be configured on your device

APN: simbase
Username: (leave empty)
Password: (leave empty)
IP Address: Dynamic (DHCP)
Data Roaming: Enabled
Authentication Type: None
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6

Important Notes

Data roaming must be enabled as Simbase SIMs operate through roaming agreements

Custom APNs with local breakout are available for enterprise customers

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Understanding Access Point Names

An APN (Access Point Name) is a network identifier that cellular devices use to establish data connections. It tells the device how to connect to the carrier's network and route traffic to the internet or private networks.

Why APN Configuration is Required

Mobile networks verify the APN settings against the SIM card's provisioned APNs. Without correct APN configuration:

  • Data connections will be blocked

  • Devices cannot access the internet

  • IoT devices cannot transmit data

Configuration Methods

Manual Configuration

Configure the APN directly through your device's network settings interface.

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    • Through device settings menu
    • Direct input of APN parameters

SMS Configuration

Send APN settings to your device remotely using SMS commands.

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    • Send configuration commands via SMS
    • Available through Simbase dashboard
    • Device must support SMS-based configuration

AT Commands

Use serial commands to configure devices with terminal access or programming interfaces.

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    • For devices with AT command interface
    • Common in industrial modems and IoT devices

USB/Software Configuration

Connect your device to a computer and configure APN using manufacturer software.

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    • Via USB connection to device
    • Using manufacturer's management software
    • Common for GPS trackers and cellular modems

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about APN Configurations

Why do I need to enable data roaming?

Simbase SIM cards are registered to specific countries and use roaming agreements to provide global coverage. Data roaming must be enabled for the SIM to connect to local networks. This does not incur additional roaming charges with Simbase.

What happens if I don't configure the APN?

Without the correct APN settings, your device cannot establish a data connection. The mobile network will block all data traffic, though voice and SMS may still work depending on your device and plan.

Why don't I need a username and password?

The Simbase APN uses SIM-based authentication. Your SIM card's IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) provides the necessary authentication, eliminating the need for separate credentials.

My device keeps resetting the APN settings. What can I do?

This commonly occurs with iOS devices after system updates, or with some Android devices after network changes. Save your APN configuration as a separate profile if your device supports it, or keep these settings handy to reconfigure when needed.

Why do I need two APN profiles on Android?

Creating two profiles with different MCC/MNC values ensures connectivity across different network partners. Your device will automatically select the appropriate profile based on the available network.

Can I use a different APN name?

No, you must use "simbase" as the APN name for standard SIM cards. Custom APN names are only available with private APN services for enterprise customers.

What's the difference between ICCID 89103 and 89445 SIMs?

These represent different SIM batches with different network profiles. While both use the same "simbase" APN, they require different MCC/MNC values on Android devices for optimal network selection.

Will the APN work in all countries?

The standard Simbase APN works in all countries where we have network partnerships (190+ countries). The same settings apply globally with no changes needed when traveling.

My device shows "Connected" but no data works. Why?

Check that data roaming is enabled, verify your SIM is activated in the dashboard, and ensure your data plan has available balance. Some devices also require a restart after APN configuration.

Can I use Simbase SIMs in a locked device?

No, your device must be unlocked (not carrier-locked) to use Simbase SIMs. Carrier-locked devices will reject the SIM or prevent APN configuration.

Do I need different settings for 4G/LTE vs 3G?

Generally no, the same APN settings work across all network technologies. However, some older LTE-only devices may require the APN to be set specifically in the LTE APN field.

What IP address will my device get?

Devices receive a dynamic private IP address via DHCP from the carrier network. This gets translated to a public IP at the internet breakout point (US by default).

Is the connection secure?

The standard APN provides the same security as typical mobile data connections. For enhanced security, consider private APN options with IPSec or other VPN technologies.

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