What is a carrier lock

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SIM lock:

A SIM-Lock, network lock, CARRIER LOCK, imei-lock or (MASTER) subsidy lock is really a technical limit built into GSM and CDMA smartphones by manufacturers to be used by carrier networks to restrict the use of these phones to a particular locations and/or networks. This is in contrast to a cell phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) which doesn't enforce any SIM restrictions.Generally if the mobile handsets weren't locked, consumers could sign a contract with one particular provider, get the marked down phone, then stop paying the monthly payment (thus breaking the contract) and begin using the mobile phone on another network or even sell the device for a profit. SIM locking curbs this by barring a change of network (using a new SIM).


Unlocking Technology:

Commonly, a locked mobile phone will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On recent phone models running Google android software, the cellphone will display a message stating “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it's 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”. Several other devices may show differing messages for instance "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some circumstances the mobile will simply present a message stating that it is locked. As soon as a valid code is entered, the mobile phone will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.


Economics:

The reason to unlock a mobile is to be able to use it with another type of SIM card. Consumers might need to continue using their cell phone but with a different service provider or while traveling in another country they might like to connect to a foreign network using a pre-paid subscription.


Unlocking Services:

Several companies offer a carrier mobile phone unlocking service . This service needs individuals who would like to unlock a handset to give their IMEI number to a unlocking company and in most cases they will also require the country and network the mobile phone is locked to, sometimes sent via email or submitted on their web-site. The company then will provide (in return for a fee) the unlock code for the phone. For many manufacturers such as Nokia and Samsung various services additionally deliver special remote-unlocking software with guidance, where a cable is required to remove the SIM lock from home. Such vendors may email the unlocking code or software which can remotely unlock the device. The cost for unlocking a mobile phone will differ dependent upon the network its locked to and the handset model itself, as every unlock code is unique to each specific device.


Unlocking Service Providers:

Disappointingly there are lots of fraudulent organizations active in the smart-phone imei unlocking industry. As a consequence it pays to ensure you find a genuine supplier for this service. Take the necessary precautions and investigate all prospective suppliers before committing to submitting an order. In the case of online sellers, make certain they specify their genuine business name and matching registration information (all genuine business has to be legally registered with all the official governing bodies within their country of origin) and make certain they supply a legitimate registered address and contact details on their web site. Also make certain that any payments made are done so via legitimate methods for instance a recognised bank or financial institution using a debt or credit card, but do not ever make payment via a direct transfer as this provides no fiancial safety. To aid with a search for a legitimate company, we have supplied a list just below (and in no specific order) of a few legitimate organizations currently offering such services.


Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers: