Add organization

📴 "No network"? APN and eSIM transfer — a quick recovery plan

The good news is that connectivity issues are usually caused by simple reasons! The wrong SIM card might be active for data, or the APN settings could be incorrect. It's also possible that 5G is stuck in a "bad cell" or the eSIM was not transferred correctly. So let's dive in and get started with the essentials — flight mode, selecting the active SIM card, restarting the network — and then we'll take it even further: APN, eSIM transfer, VoWiFi check. And don't worry, we've got you covered with some super-quick answers and handy checklists to get your internet and calls back in minutes.

Where can I find the APN for my operator?

Look in three places: 1) the operator's website/help section (there is often an "APN settings" page), 2) your personal account/app (one-tap auto-configuration), 3) the phone menu — sometimes the profile is pulled up automatically via "Operator settings". If your phone offers to "update operator settings," accept. To transfer between devices, save a short card with the APN fields (name, APN, type, protocol, authentication) without passwords in plain text.

How to check if the APN is correct?

Check the fields: APN, type (default, supl), protocol (IPv4/IPv6), authentication (PAP/CHAP/None). Return to "default" if you are unsure — it is better to work with a clean profile . Then: turn airplane mode on/off → turn on "Cellular data" → open a light page in your browser → do a quick speed test. If data is flowing but calls are dropping, temporarily switch the network to LTE/4G and turn on VoLTE.

How to transfer eSIM: QR/account/support?

There are three ways. QR code: the operator issues a new code — scan it and activate the profile on the new device. Transfer between phones: some models have "transfer eSIM" (Bluetooth/account) — follow the wizard on both devices, then delete the old profile. Through support: request a reissue of the eSIM in chat/at a store using your passport — useful if lost/broken. After transferring, be sure to check your voice, SMS and data.

What to do if you change your phone or lose it?

Lock your old device via Find My / Find Device, contact your operator and request a reissue of the eSIM. On your new phone, update the OS and "carrier settings", activate the eSIM via QR/transfer, set SIM priorities (data/voice/SMS), enable VoLTE/VoWiFi. Perform a triple test: outgoing call, incoming SMS (OTP) and internet connection. The operator will deactivate the old eSIM profile on the lost device.

How to perform a "network restart" step by step?

Quick algorithm (8 steps): 1) Airplane mode for 15–20 seconds. 2) Assign the correct SIM/eSIM for data, turn off/turn on "Cellular data". 3) Enable Data Roaming while roaming. 4) Switch 5G↔4G (LTE only). 5) Reset/check APN (preferably "Default"). 6) Manual network selection → return to "Automatic". 7) Restart the device. 8) Plan B: backup eSIM/hotspot or VoWiFi; if necessary, reissue the eSIM from your operator.
A PDF cheat sheet is available below.

How to check voice/SMS/data/VoWiFi?

Go through the following steps: data (browser/speed test), voice (outgoing/incoming calls), SMS (request OTP from the service), VoWiFi (enable Wi-Fi calls, make a test call in "airplane mode" + Wi-Fi). For video calls, do a quick 3-5 minute test. If voice and SMS are not working but data is available, check the SIM priorities and whether VoLTE is enabled on the active line.

When should you go to the operator's office?

If the eSIM does not activate after 2–3 attempts, the APN is not saved, the device does not see the network in a place where other subscribers are receiving a signal, or you need to reissue the eSIM/replace the SIM card with identity verification. Take your passport, contract/number, code ( word) with you. At the store, an employee will check your profile settings, service statuses, roaming restrictions, and remove any flags that are preventing you from registering on the network.

How to store QR codes/profiles securely?

Consider the eSIM QR code as a key. Store it offline: print it out and keep it in a folder, save it as an encrypted note in a password manager, or store it on an encrypted flash drive. Do not keep QR codes in your shared gallery or cloud. Delete old profiles from phones that you sell or give away. Store APN cheat sheets without passwords and identifiers — only field names and "how to open the menu".

Why does the network disappear when roaming?

Common reasons: Data Roaming is turned off, your "home" operator is selected manually, old "operator settings", roaming is blocked by your operator (debt/limit), your eSIM profile is "stuck" after a flight, 5G is unstable in a specific region. Solution: airplane mode, automatic network selection, 4G mode, update settings, contact support to remove restrictions. As a last resort, reissue the eSIM.

How can you tell the difference between a SIM card malfunction and network issues?

Perform a cross-check: insert your SIM card into another phone and insert another SIM card into your phone. If the problem "moves" with the SIM card, it is likely a problem with the profile/number. If it remains in the phone, check the slots, OS updates, and reset the network settings. Compare with your neighbours: if the network is down for several people, it is a local operator/cell tower failure.

The great news is that most connection problems can be solved without service! All you need to do is restart the network, check the APN and correctly transfer the eSIM. That's it – the internet is back! Make sure you keep the 8-step PDF close by, save those working settings, and don't forget the backup eSIM/VoWiFi — it'll save you time and keep your cool.

If you spot any inaccuracies or updates to the OS menu, eSIM policies or APN settings, we'd love to hear from you! Just write to us via the feedback form in the catalogue and we will check and update the article as soon as we can. And don't forget to share in the comments which step helped you — this will speed up diagnostics for other readers!

Frequently asked questions

APN not saving?

Reset to default, restart, update your operator settings.

eSIM not activating?

Request a new QR code/reissue, check Wi-Fi during activation.

No VoWiFi?

Check your tariff and model support; enable the option with your operator and in the settings.

Ksenia
By:

Ksenia

Post:I write about Norway — simply, clearly, and with respect for the details.

I’m 33 years old, and I’m one of the contributors to the Norway travel guide. I write for those who want to understand the country more deeply — not just what …

Visit author