What is a NETWORK-LOCK?
From EjWiki
A SIM-LOCK, Network-Lock, carrier-lock, imei-lock or (master) subsidy lock is really a technical limit built into GSM and CDMA cell phones by producers to be used by providers to limit using these phones to particular locations and/or networks. This is in contrast to a mobile phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM constraints.SIM locking is extremely common if subsidized devices are offered with prepay contracts. It is important to note, however, that the technology linked with the smartphone must be compatible with the technology used by the network carrier. A GSM cellphone is only going to function with a GSM carrier and isn't going to work on a CDMA network. In the same way, a CDMA mobile can only work with a CDMA service and isn't going to function on a GSM service. Keep in mind that new (2013 onwards) high end mobile phones are equipped to support both CDMA and GSM technologies, letting customers to utilize their mobiles on any sort of network.
Unlocking Technology: A smartphone can be unlocked simply by entering a code supplied by the service operator. Different mechanisms include software operating on the device or a computer or laptop connected to the handset, hardware devices that link to the device or over-the-air by the service provider. Usually the unlock procedure is permanent. The code needed to remove all locks from a cell phone is referred to as the master code, network code key, or multi-lock code. Generally if the device is carrier locked it will usually show one of the following messages: SIM network PIN blocked, Enter lock PIN.
Economics: Most of the time a SIM-locked smartphone is sold at a significantly reduced cost than an unlocked one simply because the supplier plans income thru its service. SIM locks are currently employed on lower priced (pay-as-you-go) mobiles, whilst bargains on higher priced handsets require a subscription that provides guaranteed income. Unlocked phones have a greater market value.
Unlocking Services: Some organizations provide a on-line mobile phone unlocking service. This service needs all those that would like to unlock a device to give their IMEI number to a unlocking company and sometimes they will also request the country and service provider the mobile phone is locked to, frequently sent by email or submitted on their website. The company will then supply (at a cost to you) the unlock code for the handset. For some brands as in Nokia and Samsung numerous services also deliver special remote-unlocking software with directions, when a cable connection is needed to remove the SIM lock at home. Such vendors may email the unlocking code or software which can remotely unlock the unit. The cost for unlocking a mobile phone will vary according to the network it is locked to and the smartphone model itself, as every unlock code is unique to each individual handset.
Unlocking Service Providers: Regrettably there are a multitude of scammers on-line retailers active in the cellphone carrier unlocking industry. As a consequence it is prudent to ensure you locate a genuine service provider for such a service. To assist with your search for a trustworthy supplier, we have provided a checklist just below (and in no particular order) of a number of legitimate organisations currently offering such services.
Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers: Cell UnlockerMobile UnlockedDoctorSIMUnlock.ZoneUnlock BaseUnlock River
