Connecting your mobile or device to data is an integral part of the experience. Using the right Access Point Name (APN) is critical to ensuring effective data connectivity.

Having your APN correctly configured affects everything from day-to-day connection while in the UK, accessing data on your device whilst abroad, and accessing a number of other data-driven services such as visual voicemail and MMS.

But what is an APN, how can you check or change data settings, and what happens if these settings don't configure automatically? Let's delve in.

APN (Access Point Name)

At the heart of the data connection is the Access Point Name (APN). APN settings in your mobile device are essentially the gateways to the Internet.

Your device's APN identifies the Internet Protocol (IP) address that your mobile device connects to for data services, ensuring your device connects to the appropriate service offered by plan.com.

There might be instances where you switch on your device, and your data doesn’t work as the settings didn’t configure automatically. Take note that activation of data services may take up to 24 hours after a SIM change/activation.

If after this time period, your data is not working, check if your APN settings are correctly configured.

Why Do I Have To Change My Data Settings?

Evolving technology could require you to update your APN settings to access the new data networks that plan.com provides.

If you've changed from another provider to plan.com, your data settings might need an update to ensure you're connected to the right service.

Effect of Changing Your APN Settings

Changing your APN may not affect your phone service (calls and SMS), but incorrect APN settings may interfere with your data services. In addition, due to the changing nature of voice calls, services such as 4G Calling and Visual Voicemail do require data access. Therefore, it's helpful to familiarise yourself with these configurations and update them when needed or rely on the automatic settings as provided by welcome to plan.com.

Configuring the APN on Your Device

A full guide to APN settings, including a step-by-step visual walkthrough for major operating systems, is available here: https://www.plan.com/apn-settings 

However, here's an overview:

iOS Devices

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Select Mobile Data or Cellular, depending on your iOS version.
3. Select Mobile Data Network or Cellular Data Network.
4. Under the Mobile Data or Cellular Data section, scroll down till you see the APN field where can check and configure the APN settings that your iPhone is using.

Android Devices

1. Swipe up from the home screen, to access your apps.
2. Open the Settings app.
3. Open Connections.
4. Open Mobile Connections.
5. Open Access Point Names to check and configure connections.

Windows Devices

1. Open the Start  menu.
2. Select the Settings  app.
3. Follow the path Network & internet > Cellular > Mobile operator settings > Add APN.
4. Check or configure your existing APN settings as needed.

Understanding your device's data connection, its settings, can help you ensure you're always connected and that your mobile experience is optimised.

As a plan.com customer ensuring your APN settings are right corresponds with the robust, customisable, and user-friendly data service that you are provided.