Summary

  • A “SIM Not Provisioned” error can occur due to various reasons, like new SIM activation or compatibility issues.
  • Try simple solutions like restarting your phone, toggling Airplane Mode, or checking the SIM for damage.
  • If the error persists, activate your SIM, reset network settings, or contact your network provider for assistance.

You reach for your Android phone, only to be greeted by a frustrating “SIM Not Provisioned” error. It’s a common problem that can leave you disconnected from calls, texts, and data. But don’t worry, you can fix it yourself in just a few steps.

Why Is Your SIM Not Provisioned?

A SIM card is a small chip you insert into your phone to connect to a cellular network. Provisioning simply means activating or configuring the SIM so it can access the network’s services.

The “SIM Not Provisioned” error appears when your SIM card cannot connect to your network provider’s system. This can happen for a few reasons. You may have inserted a new SIM card that hasn’t been activated yet, or the SIM hasn’t been registered on the mobile network. It’s also possible that the SIM card isn’t properly seated in the SIM tray or there’s a compatibility issue between the SIM card and your phone. If you recently switched to an eSIM from a physical one, you might get that error.

✕ Remove Ads

If you use a dual SIM phone and you get a number with the error message like “SIM 2 not provisioned”, it just tells you which SIM is having the error.

How to Fix “Sim Not Provisioned” on Android Phones

Restart Your Phone

The first and easiest step is to restart your phone. The restart process might get rid of the issue. To restart your device, swipe down from the top of your screen to bring up the quick settings. Select “Restart” in the options shown. Wait for the phone to power off and then on. Once the phone is back on, check if the error is resolved.

Toggle Airplane Mode

Sometimes, the issue lies in your phone’s connection to the network rather than the SIM card itself. Enabling and then disabling Airplane Mode can reset your device’s network connectivity. Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings menu, tap on the airplane icon to enable Airplane Mode, wait a few seconds, and then tap it again to disable it.

Select the airplane icon.
✕ Remove Ads

This simple trick often resolves minor network-related issues.

Check Your SIM Card For Damage

A physically damaged or improperly inserted SIM card can cause this error. Start by powering off your phone and ejecting the SIM card tray using the tool provided with your phone.

A SIM tool next to a smartphone with the SIM card visible in its tray.
Aran Folsom / How-To Geek

Carefully check the SIM card for visible scratches, dirt, or signs of wear. If it looks dirty, gently clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth. Reinsert the SIM card and make sure it’s properly aligned. Then turn your phone back on. The error should be gone.

If you have access to another phone, try inserting your SIM card into it to confirm whether the problem lies with the card or your phone. You might need a replacement if the card doesn’t work in another device.

✕ Remove Ads

Activate Your SIM

New SIM cards often need activation before they can connect to your network provider’s system. Activation methods vary by carrier but usually involve following instructions provided with your SIM card. This could mean calling an activation number, visiting a website, or inserting the card into your phone and following the on-screen prompts.

If you’re unsure how to activate your SIM, check your provider’s website or call customer support for guidance.

Reset Your Network Settings

If the error persists, resetting your network settings might help. This process restores all network-related configurations, including mobile data, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth settings, to their default state. Check out our guide on how to reset your network settings on Android devices.

Contact Your Network Provider

If none of the above steps work, the issue might be on your network provider’s end. Reach out to their customer support team for assistance. They can check the status of your account, ensure your SIM card is activated, and resolve any technical issues. If necessary, they may provide a replacement SIM card for you.

✕ Remove Ads

The “SIM Not Provisioned” error can be annoying, but in most cases, it’s easily fixable with a few simple steps. Start with the basics, like restarting your phone or toggling Airplane Mode, before moving on to more advanced solutions, such as resetting your network settings or contacting your provider. With these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be back online in no time.