How to enable or disable access point name (APN)
What is an APN setting?
An Access Point Name (APN) is the information your phone reads to make a connection to the gateway between your mobile network and the internet.
When you access the internet via your smartphone, your carrier’s network will use your APN to give your device an IP address and make sure the connection is secure.
Why check your APN settings?
For the carrier to be able to ensure these things, the settings on your device need to be correct.
In most cases, your mobile’s APN settings will be pre-configured, meaning you don’t have to worry about adding any extra information to connect to your network.
However, there are some instances when you’ll need to manually change your APN settings.
If your phone is not connecting the way you want it to, there may be an issue with the in-built settings requiring you to re-enter the correct settings.
- The most common reason for needing a new APN is when you move from one network to another, as an APN is specific to each network operator. This is particularly relevant if you’re purchasing a refurbished phone that has been unlocked.
- Not all connectivity issues are caused by an APN issue, so make sure you change the settings with care. Incorrect settings can prompt a loss in connectivity.
Learn more: WiFi vs cellular data: What’s the difference?
View and change your APN settings
If you enter incorrect APN settings, you might lose cellular data connectivity and receive additional charges.
Don’t edit the APN unless directed by your carrier.
Contact your carrier to verify the correct APN settings.
If your carrier allows it, you can view your APN settings in one of the following locations:
-
-
- Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network
- Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Mobile Data Network
-
If your device doesn’t have either option, contact your carrier.
To change your settings, tap each field and enter the details from your carrier.
The settings should save automatically.
Depending on your carrier, you might not be able to change the cellular data settings.
If your carrier needs a different APN setting, you might be able to use a configuration profile with the correct setting.
Unless you’re using a configuration profile, updating iOS resets any changes made to your APN settings.
If you edit your APN settings before updating iOS, your settings will reset to the default values.
You might need to reenter your settings after an iOS update.
Related content
Use Your Phone As A Mobile Hotspot
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) allows mobile customers to switch an unlocked, compatible phone from their current wireless carrier to a new network...
Why Is My Data Not Working?
Step through these troubleshooting pointers to find out why your data might not be working...
How To Transfer Your Phone Number
Keep your existing phone number by porting it to our network when you switch to Astound Mobile...
Quick links
Looking for something else?
Check out the Support Center for all Mobile support content.
Astound Mobile requires Astound Internet service. Coverage not available in all areas. A trademark of Ziff Davis, LLC. Used under license. Reprinted with permission. Where available. © 2024 Ziff Davis, LLC. All Rights Reserved. All names, logos, images and service marks are property of their respective owners. ©2024 Astound Broadband. All rights reserved.
This website contains instructional information, including from third-party sources, and is intended, but cannot be guaranteed, to be always up-to-date, complete and accurate. Astound does not endorse, and is not responsible for, any third-party content that may be accessed through this website. Any representation or warranty by Astound that might be otherwise implied by information on this website is expressly disclaimed. Astound expressly disclaims all liability or responsibility with respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the instructional information contained on this website. Astound does not warrant or guarantee the availability of any services at any specific time or geographic location or that services will be provided without interruption. Not all aspects of the Astound services function on all equipment and devices. Use of this website is subject to the Web Site Disclaimer and Web Content Accessibility Policy.