eSIM not working: troubleshooting
Sometimes an eSIM does not connect or data does not work as expected. Most issues are due to settings or activation, not the eSIM itself. This guide lists common causes and what to try.
Definición
eSIM "not working" usually means no data connection, no signal, or the plan not appearing. Troubleshooting means checking device support, installation, settings, and network conditions step by step.
Cómo funciona
1. Confirm the eSIM is installed: in Settings > Cellular / SIMs you should see the plan.
2. Ensure the eSIM is set as the default for mobile data (or selected for data when roaming).
3. Turn off flight mode and ensure cellular data is on.
4. Restart the device and wait a minute for the network to register.
5. If you are abroad, check that the plan covers your current country and has not expired.
6. Try manually selecting the network (Settings > Cellular > Network Selection) if the device is not connecting.
7. If it still fails, contact the eSIM provider with your order details and device model.
2. Ensure the eSIM is set as the default for mobile data (or selected for data when roaming).
3. Turn off flight mode and ensure cellular data is on.
4. Restart the device and wait a minute for the network to register.
5. If you are abroad, check that the plan covers your current country and has not expired.
6. Try manually selecting the network (Settings > Cellular > Network Selection) if the device is not connecting.
7. If it still fails, contact the eSIM provider with your order details and device model.
Beneficios y limitaciones
Benefits: Most problems are fixable without replacing the eSIM. Limitations: Some issues (e.g. no coverage in the area, expired plan) require a new plan or different provider; support quality varies.
Comparación con alternativas
Troubleshooting eSIM is similar to fixing a physical SIM: check settings, network selection, and plan validity. The main difference is that you cannot "reseat" an eSIM; you recheck settings and, if needed, reinstall the profile (if the provider allows).
Preguntas frecuentes
- Why does my eSIM show no service?
- Check that the eSIM is selected for data, you are not in flight mode, and the plan is valid and covers your location. Try restarting and manual network selection.
- I have signal but no data. What do I do?
- Ensure the eSIM is set as default for cellular data. On some devices you must choose it explicitly for data use.
- The eSIM disappeared from my phone.
- Check Settings > Cellular / SIMs. If it is gone, you may have removed it or a reset cleared it. Reinstall from the provider’s QR or link if the plan is still valid.
- Does not work abroad. Worked at home.
- Confirm the plan covers the country you are in and is activated. Set the eSIM as default for data so the device does not use your home SIM for data (roaming).
- QR code says invalid or expired.
- The code may have a time limit or one-time use. Contact the provider for a new code or link if you have not yet installed the plan.
- Installation failed. What next?
- Check device compatibility, internet connection, and that the code or link is correct. Try the link if you have it, or ask the provider to resend.
- Can I reset the eSIM?
- You can remove the profile and reinstall it (if the provider allows). There is no separate "reset"; removal and re-add is the equivalent.
- Why does it work on Wi‑Fi but not on cellular?
- Wi‑Fi does not use the eSIM. If cellular fails, the eSIM data settings or network selection are the likely cause; check default data line and network.
- My phone says eSIM not supported.
- Your device may not have eSIM or it may be disabled for your region or carrier. Use a physical SIM or another device.
- Who do I contact if nothing works?
- The eSIM provider’s support. Have your order ID, device model, and what you already tried ready.
Cuándo tiene sentido esta solución
Use this approach whenever the eSIM does not give you data or signal. Start with settings and restart before assuming the plan or device is faulty.
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