Before you use your cell phone with a new provider, you probably will need to unlock it.
Unlocking your phone often requires you to contact your cell phone provider or seek the assistance of an unlocking company, either directly or by purchasing third-party software. There is a cheaper, quicker option. Some unlocking software can be downloaded for free. Locate your cell phone's International Mobility Equipment Identification (IMEI) number to start the process. This number provides pertinent information about your phone to the freeware.
Instructions
1. Enter *#06#, using your phone's keypad. This will give you the IMEI number. Write it down.
2. Choose the freeware you want to use. Examples include NokiaFREE, MotoBlaze and Free SIM Unlock (see Resources). Download the software to your desktop for easy access.
3. Double-click the installation file. Follow instructions for proper installation. Restart your computer.
4. Double-click the unlock freeware. Enter your cell phone's IMEI number, model number and manufacturer. Click "Unlock" or a similar function.
5. Wait for the results. Write down the unlock codes, since there may be more than one. The freeware also may give you special instructions for unlocking your cell phone.
6. Enter the unlock code into your cell phone and press the "Menu-OK" button. Depending on your cell phone, you may have up to five attempts. Once you have the right code, your cell phone will access your new cell phone provider's network.
Tags: cell phone, your cell, your cell phone, IMEI number, your phone, cell phone provider