What is a networklock

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SIM lock:

A SIM lock, network-lock, CARRIER LOCK, IMEI LOCK or (MASTER) subsidy lock is a technical restriction built into GSM and CDMA mobile phone devices by producers to be used by providers to limit using these phones to specific locations and/or networks. This is in comparison with a cell phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM constraints.

Most cell phones can be unlocked to work with any GSM network provider, but the phone can still display the original branding and may not support popular features of the new carrier. Aside from the locking, phones could also have firmware that come with them which is specific to the mobile phone network provider. This firmware is installed by the service provider and is separate from the locking mechanism. Virtually all smartphones can be unbranded by re-flashing a new firmware version, a procedure suited to advanced users only.


Unlocking Technology:

Usually, a locked handset will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, requesting the unlock code. On recent phone models running Android os software, the smartphone is going to show a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it is network locked. Windows phones are going to show the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Some other models could display specific messages such as "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some circumstances the device will simply present a message stating it's locked. The minute a valid code is keyed in, the handset will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.


Economics:

The main reason to unlock a handset is to be able to use it with another type of SIM card. Customers might want to carry on using their cell phone but with a new provider or when traveling in foreign countries they may want to connect to a international network with a prepay subscription.


Unlocking Services:

Many organizations offer a on-line unlocking service . This service needs people who wish to unlock a mobile phone to provide their IMEI number to a service supplier and sometimes they will also ask for the country and network the mobile phone handset is locked to, either sent by email or entered on their web-site. The supplier then will supply (in return for a fee) an unlock code for the mobile phone. For some manufacturers as in Nokia and Samsung many services also supply unique remote-unlocking software with directions, where a cable is required to remove the SIM lock from home. Such organizations may well email the unlocking code or software that will remotely unlock the unit. The cost for unlocking a cellphone can vary according to the mobile phone network it's locked to and the smartphone model itself, as every unlock code is unique to each unique handset.


Unlocking Service Providers:

Disappointingly there are lots of fraudulent websites working in the cellphone network unlocking industry. As a result it pays to ensure you find a reliable provider for these services. Do your due diligence and investigate all potential providers before committing to making an order. In the case of on-line suppliers, ensure they provide their official organization name and matching registration information (every legit enterprise must be legally registered with the official governing bodies within their country of origin) and ensure they give a legitimate registered address and contact information on their website. In addition make sure that any payments made are through legitimate methods as in a recognised bank or financial institution using a debt or credit card, but never make payment via a direct transfer since this offers no fiancial security. To aid with a search for a legitimate supplier, we have supplied a list beneath (and in no specific order) of several legitimate organisations currently offering such services.


Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers: