Network
Network selection, no service, and roaming settings.
This section explains the network settings relevant to using an eSIM while travelling — from the APN configuration some devices need entered manually, to choosing a network mode, through to why a device sometimes shows an unfamiliar network name. What is written here focuses on settings and network behaviour, not the installation or activation steps, which live in other categories.
If the symptom is that data does not work at all despite activation, check the activation category first to confirm every step has genuinely been completed. If activation was done correctly but there is still a problem with speed or a weak signal, the data-speed category answers that more directly.
What APN settings are and how much they matter
APN stands for Access Point Name — a value that tells the device which channel to use when connecting to the data network. Most devices set this automatically the moment a profile is installed and connects successfully, though some models or situations may require entering it manually.
The correct APN value for your plan, if one is needed, is stated in your order confirmation email. We do not recommend guessing or copying an APN value from a different plan, since each underlying network uses its own value — entering the wrong one can prevent the device from connecting to the network at all.
Which network mode to choose
The network mode menu usually offers several choices, such as automatic selection or a fixed network type. Generally it is best set to automatic, or to the broadest option the device supports, letting the device choose whichever network is best in that area itself.
Locking the network mode to a fixed, older-generation type can result in slower connections or no signal at all in areas that generation does not cover. Without a specific reason, there is no need to change it away from the automatic setting it came with.
Why the network name shown is unfamiliar
| What you see | What it means |
|---|---|
| A network name never seen before | The profile connected through a local partner network, which is normal behaviour for cross-operator roaming |
| Letter indicators such as E, 3G, 4G, 5G E beside the signal bars | Indicates the network technology currently connected, not a sign of a problem |
| The network name switching every so often | The device is automatically searching for whichever network has the best signal in that area |
What commonly appears in the status bar while roaming
Turning mobile data on or off while roaming
The device's overall mobile data switch must stay on for the eSIM profile to work at all, separate from that specific profile's own data roaming switch, which is explained in the activation category. If the overall mobile data switch is off, the device will not connect to the internet over any mobile network, regardless of which SIM is involved.
If the device holds both the original main SIM and the eSIM profile at once, check whether the eSIM profile is already set as the primary data route, since if the device is still using the main SIM for data, unintended roaming charges from that main SIM could result.
Using a VPN alongside an eSIM
Using a VPN while connected through an eSIM works just as it would over any other mobile connection, though a VPN can reduce speed somewhat since data passes through an additional intermediary server, and some countries carry legal restrictions on VPN use, which is something the traveller needs to check for themselves against the destination country's own rules.
Can Wi-Fi Calling or internet-calling apps be used?
Since most travel plans are data-only with no local voice number, making or receiving calls usually relies on internet-calling apps, such as popular messaging apps that support calling, which use the eSIM profile's data normally, as long as an internet connection is present.
The operating system's own Wi-Fi Calling feature is usually tied to your original main SIM, not the newly installed eSIM profile. If you want to use that feature, check with your main SIM's operator whether it supports this and have it switched on before travelling.
- Let the device set the APN automatically first
- Set the network mode to automatic unless there is a specific reason not to
- Confirm the eSIM profile is set as the primary data route
- Switch off data roaming for the original main SIM before travelling
- Do not be alarmed if the network name shown is unfamiliar
FAQ
Do I always need to enter the APN manually?+
Mostly not, since newer devices set it automatically the moment a connection succeeds. Only enter it manually if the connection genuinely fails, and use the correct value from your order confirmation email.
Why does restarting the device sometimes bring the network back?+
Restarting makes the device search for and connect to the network fresh from scratch, which often clears a temporary hang caused by switching networks while travelling.
Can a hotspot be used through this network setup?+
Yes, subject to the terms of the plan bought. Detail and how to switch on a hotspot are covered specifically in the hotspot category.
Why does speed differ between areas of the same country?+
Speed depends on the actual network density in that specific area, not a fixed figure set by the plan. This is covered in more depth in the data-speed category.
What should I do if I changed the network mode myself and lost connection?+
Try switching back to the automatic option in the same menu; if it still does not return, try restarting the device once more.
Can offline navigation help save data?+
Yes, many map apps support downloading maps in advance for offline use, which can substantially cut data usage while travelling.
Common questions in this section
Do I need to turn on data roaming?+
Yes — but only for the eSIM line. Travel plans work by roaming onto partner networks. Keep data roaming switched off on your home SIM so your home operator cannot bill you.
Do I have to set the APN myself?+
Usually not — the profile sets it automatically. If you have signal but no data, open the eSIM line's mobile network settings and enter the APN shown on your order page. Leave username and password blank unless stated otherwise.
How do I select a network manually?+
Open the eSIM line's mobile network settings, turn off automatic selection, wait for the scan, then pick one of the partner networks listed on your plan page. If it does not attach, try the next one. This helps most where several networks overlap, such as airports and border areas.
My phone attached to a slower network+
Phones attach to the strongest signal, which is not always the fastest network. Use manual selection to try another partner network, and check the preferred network mode is 5G/LTE rather than 3G or a battery-saving mode that caps speed.
How do I receive OTP from my home number abroad?+
Keep your home line enabled to receive SMS but turn off data roaming on it. Incoming SMS is normally free while data roaming is the expensive part. Confirm with your operator before you fly that voice/SMS roaming is enabled on your number.
How do I avoid roaming charges on my home SIM?+
Turn off data roaming on the home line, set mobile data to the eSIM line, and disable 'allow cellular data switching' — that setting is what silently falls back to your home line when the eSIM signal dips. Re-check all three after you land.
How do I turn off automatic data switching?+
On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > turn off 'Allow Cellular Data Switching'. On most Android phones: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > pick the data SIM and disable automatic switching. Menu names vary by maker and OS version.
How should I set up dual SIM?+
Keep your home SIM for calls and SMS, set the eSIM as the data line, turn off data roaming on the home line, turn it on for the eSIM, and disable automatic data switching. Labelling the lines — 'Home number' and 'Trip data' — makes mistakes far less likely.
How do I change the APN?+
iPhone: Settings > Cellular > select the eSIM line > Cellular Data Network, then fill the APN field. Android: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Access Point Names, then create a new APN with the values from your order. Restart afterwards.
Can I use a VPN with my eSIM?+
Yes. A VPN runs on top of the connection and does not care whether it comes from an eSIM or a physical SIM. Note it adds a little overhead and can reduce speed. Install and sign in to your VPN app before you leave.
Anything special about internet access in mainland China?+
Mainland China restricts access to some international services. Many travel plans roam on Chinese domestic networks and inherit those restrictions; some route traffic out of the country instead, which changes what is reachable. Check the plan page before buying, and set up a fallback such as a VPN before you travel.
Can I still receive calls on my normal number?+
Yes, if your phone supports two active lines and you leave the home line on. Switch off just that line's roaming data and set mobile data to the travel profile. Calls and SMS still arrive, but what your operator charges for receiving them while roaming is their rate, so check it with them first.
Do I need to do anything when crossing a border?+
If the plan covers the next country the phone normally reattaches on its own, which can take a few minutes. If there is still no data after about ten minutes, toggle airplane mode once. If the plan does not cover that country, install the next plan while you still have a connection.
Which network will I connect to?+
It depends on that plan's agreements with operators in the destination. The plan page lists the supported networks we can confirm. Your phone selects automatically from the signal available and may move between supported networks as you travel. We do not guarantee any specific one.
My phone keeps switching networks. Is that normal?+
It is normal when you are moving or where several networks have similar signal: the phone picks the best one at that moment. If the switching disrupts your connection often, try selecting a network manually where you are staying, then return to automatic when you move on.
Can I use my eSIM on a plane?+
In flight you must follow the airline and use airplane mode. Any onboard internet is the airline's own Wi-Fi, which does not use your plan and is priced separately. Your plan becomes useful once you land.
How and when do I select a network manually?+
Do it when the phone cannot find a network although the settings are right: open network selection, turn off automatic, wait for the list, then try the networks one at a time.
Why am I not getting 5G?+
It requires all three at once: the network you are on allowing 5G for roaming users, 5G coverage where you are, and a device and plan that support it.
Read each answer in full
- Do I need to turn on data roaming?
- Do I have to set the APN myself?
- How do I select a network manually?
- My phone attached to a slower network
- How do I receive OTP from my home number abroad?
- How do I avoid roaming charges on my home SIM?
- How do I turn off automatic data switching?
- How should I set up dual SIM?
- How do I change the APN?
- Can I use a VPN with my eSIM?
- Anything special about internet access in mainland China?
- Can I still receive calls on my normal number?
- Do I need to do anything when crossing a border?
- Which network will I connect to?
- My phone keeps switching networks. Is that normal?
- Can I use my eSIM on a plane?
- How and when do I select a network manually?
- Why am I not getting 5G?