What is an ICCID?
Your IoT SIM card enables your devices to connect to different networks. In order for the network provider to be able to identify a subscriber, their device and the SIM attached to that device, different identifieres are required.
The ICCID helps the network provider (and you) to identify the SIM itself.
ICCID stands for Integrated Circuit Card Identifier. It is a unique 18-22 digit number assigned to a SIM card that consists of several numeric components.
Example of an ICCID: 8901711001091083180
The first two digits are always 89, indicating the industry code for telecommunication networks. The industry code is followed by the country code, the issuer identifier number, individual account identification number (unique to the SIM) and a check digit for error detection. You can view the ICCIDs of your SIM cards in our SIM Management portal.
The ICCID is used for various purposes, including identifying, authenticating and tracking the SIM card in the mobile network, managing the SIM and troubleshooting connectivity.
Why is the ICCID important?
- Identification of the SIM:
The ICCID is used to identify the SIM to the network provider for authentication and tracking across the network. - SIM Management:
The ICCID is used to manage the SIM’s activation status, data plan, switching networks when roaming, troubleshooting and more. - Security:
The ICCID is a part of the encryption process that secures communications between the IoT device and the network.
What is the difference between ICCID, IMSI and IMEI?
IMSI refers to International Mobile Subscriber Identity, which is a unique 15-digit identifier used by MNOs and MVNOs to identify and authenticate users/subscribers that request to connect to a network. The IMSI is tied to the user’s account but not the SIM card or the device itself.
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code that identifies the physical device itself. The IMEI helps network operators track the device itself and can be used to block stolen or unauthorized devices from accessing the network.
Each SIM profile has an ICCID and IMSI number. The ICCID, is related to your physical SIM, whereas the IMSI identifies the subscriber. It identifies you as a user, but does not identify the SIM card itself. The IMEI number is linked to the physical device itself.
How do you find your SIM’s ICCID?
The easiest way to find your ICCID is when your SIM is shipped to you. Typically, the ICCID number will be displayed on the SIM or the packaging it came in.
Another way to find the ICCID is your device settings either via the display or a software you use to access the device. Usually, a device has an overview of the different identifiers relating to your SIM and device. If you can’t find the ICCID in your IoT device’s settings, you can temporarily put the sim card in a phone and navigate to the phone’s settings.
Whenever you need to, for example, troubleshoot a device’s network connection, move a SIM to a different data plan or activate/suspend a SIM, it is important that you can identify the SIM via the ICCID.
Conclusion
The ICCID is an essential component in identifying and managing SIM cards for IoT devices. It enables network providers to authenticate and track each SIM, ensuring secure communications, proper service provisioning, and easy SIM management. Being able to locate and use the ICCID is key for effective device management and troubleshooting in any IoT environment.
