How Do I Know If My Phone is Network Locked?

The most efficient way to see if your phone is network locked or not is to try it with a SIM card from a different network (you can briefly borrow it from a family member or a friend). This method works with any phone. 

You can also follow the steps below: 

1. Call someone using the current SIM card, and make sure it connects.
2. Power off the phone and hold down the Sleep/Wake button and use the Slide to Power Off option to switch off the phone.
3. Use the SIM-card ejector tool (or a paper clip) to eject the SIM card from the phone.
4. Insert a different SIM card.
5. Press the Sleep/Wake button to wake up the phone.
6. Make a phone call. Check that the phone can connect a call using the new SIM card.

On most phones, you will get a very clear message that your phone is network locked when you try to use a SIM card from another network. If a message does not appear, try making a phone call. If the phone call does not connect with the new SIM card, then the phone is locked.

If you are unable to try operating your phone with a different SIM and if you have an iPhone, another method is to navigate to the Settings menu and take a look there:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options (in older versions of iOS you will just have to tap Mobile)
3. Check for an option named Mobile Data Network

If you see an option for Mobile Data Network then your iPhone is most likely unlocked. This option should not appear on locked iPhones.

With Android phones, you can check if the device is network locked using the IMEI number: 

1. In the Phone App, dial *#06# and your IMEI number will appear on the screen.
2. Go to www.imei.info (you must create an account and log in to be able to see the network information about your phone) and enter your IMEI number in the website's search box. 
3. Next to the information about the phone with the IMEI number you've entered, under the "Free Checks" menu, tap on Warranty via SN.
4. Once the loading is complete, you will see the information about the network and whether it is locked or unlocked. 

If you do not do any of the processes that are listed above, you can call your network provider and they should be able to assist you.