SIM stores important data unique to the subscriber. This data includes information about the network provider, user profile and access description.
What is provisioning?
Provisioning derives from the root word ‘provision’, which in simple terms means to provide for something. It is to make something available for something or someone to use. In the tech world or context it takes arrays of meanings: in grid computing (a system of connecting computer nodes) provisioning means to activate the components. In storage technology, provisioning is the technicality of assigning storage to boost performance.
Provisioning, still in the context of technology, from the perspective of telecommunications means different things in different areas of focus: 1) it means to provide telecommunication services to users/subscribers (including every essential equipment and technicality). 2) It is also used to mean configuring the telecommunication equipment to work with the users’ equipment. In IT computing provisioning is the technical process of configuring the system (information technology system) locally or in the cloud. The opposite of this process in IT technology is called de-positioning.
Now you know more about provisioning, a technical word with different meanings in different contexts. Nonetheless, our focus is on SIM card provisioning, which falls under the telecommunications context.
What is SIM card provisioning?
In telecommunications, SIM card provisioning is the technical aspect of the microchip connecting to the network provider to perform its services to the user. It’s also the process of activating the SIM card network to serve the user.
SIM card not provisioned?
If your SIM card is not provisioned there are tons of reasons to be considered. I understand how frustrating this could be, so be patient and follow through.
SIM card not provisioned simply means ‘no network’ in layman’s terms. This means you cannot receive a network signal on your cell phone or mobile device. So what should you do?
How to fix SIM card not provisioned
Insert error: Remove the SIM card out of the device and reinsert it again. In some phones you will see a diagram showing the correct way to insert the SIM card, follow through and reinsert it and then restart your phone. If it still does not work try using the SIM on another phone.
SIM card is not activated: This can happen if it’s a new SIM card or you just bought a new phone. In some circumstances, you are required to register the SIM card with the network provider using your details before you can use the card. Contact the network provider and register the SIM card. After the registration wait for a few minutes (sometimes within 24 hours), and restart your phone–network will come up.
SIM card locked: There is a possibility that the card is locked to a particular product of phones. Check the SIM pack to ascertain if the card can be used on any type of mobile device product. If it is locked, you have to get that particular product or just change to another SIM card network.
Mobile device locked: It’s also possible that your mobile device needs to be unlocked to accept any type of SIM card network. Check your phone model and the product label, and then try to have it unlocked by a professional. Sometimes you don’t need a professional to have your phone unlocked; using the required changes code will get the job done.
SIM card corrupted or damaged: On a more sombre note the SIM card could have been damaged or the microchip corrupted. The solution here is to replace the SIM card with another new one. Don’t worry about losing your phone number; contact your network provider and request for SIM swap. Your old number will be swapped with the new number–problem solved.
Conclusion
Provisioning is a technical term that means different things in different contexts. In telecommunications, SIM card provisioning is the process of the card connecting to the network provider to perform its functions for the user. If a SIM card is not provisioned it means it’s not receiving a network signal to perform its basic function. Many things can be the cause of this: bad signal from the network provider or locked mobile phone, locked SIM card; poor insertion or completely damaged SIM. Each of these problems can be resolved, so you don’t have to be frustrated if your SIM card is not provisioned.
- How long does it take for a SIM card to be provisioned?
Ans: It takes a couple of seconds after inserting the SIM card and starting the phone. Just wait patiently for one minute.
- How can I backup my SIM card contact numbers?
Ans: Your contact numbers can be saved on your SIM card or your mobile device. If you want more backup functionality download and install the SIM card backup app on your phone. Open the app and click backup. After the successful backup, you can transfer the data to an external device (it could be Goggle cloud or Apple iCloud) for safe keeping.
