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What is ICCID?
We can be sure that there is a lot of information on our SIM cards. It does not only have all our contacts but also stores the necessary data to connect to our mobile network. It enables us to communicate with the world, using data, calls, and messages.
That is why we believe it wise to know more about SIM cards and how they work. In this article, we will talk about the ICCID number. It is a number that identifies our SIM cards within all the cards in the world. We will also mention the differences between the ICCID and other codes related to SIM cards and cell phones.
So don’t wait any longer and continue reading:
What you need to know about ICCID numbers
Before going deeper and explain all the details about ICCID numbers, let’s understand what each letter of the abbreviation means. ICCID stands for Integrated Circuit Card Identification. An Integrated Circuit Card is nothing more than a card that has an embedded microchip, which stores data. So in short, the ICCID is a number that identifies a SIM card.
The ICCID number consists of an 18 – 22 digits code, which is unique for each SIM card in the world. There are not two SIM cards with the same information stored.
To be sure that each SIM card is unique, telecommunication companies have created the ICCID, in which code four sets of numbers are identified. These codes refer to the type of industry (telecommunication), the country, the mobile network, and the identification number.
Let’s cover these codes in more detail. To do this, let’s take this ICCID number as a reference: 8914102348144559369.
First two numbers: These numbers are always the same (89). Every ICCID in the world starts with these numbers. It is because it identifies the SIM card as a card used in the telecommunications industry. Other cards such as credit and debit cards use another number.
Country Code: The next 1 to 6 numbers refer to the country code. The International Telecommunication Union establishes this number to identify the country where the SIM card is from. In our example, the country code is 1, which means the SIM card is from the United States.
Here you have other country codes as examples:
- Spain: 34
- Switzerland: 41
- United Kingdom: 44
- Portugal: 351
- India: 91
Mobile Network Code (MNC): This code represents the mobile operator to which the sim card is associated. It can be composed of 1 to 3 digits. It is in other words, its home network. The SIM card uses the code to identify to which network it should be connected. In our example, the Mobile Network Code is 410. This number represents the mobile network AT&T in the United States.
Let’s see other Mobile Network Codes from operators in the United States:.
- Verizon Wireless: 012
- MobileTel: 013
- T-Mobile: 200, 210, 220 … 300
The next numbers will be unique for each SIM card. They are the identification number. Telecommunication companies can use this code to view specific information of the SIM card. Also to activate services, or provide specific customer service. In our example that identification number is 2348144559369.
Where can I find my ICCID number?
This is a good question since eventually, you may need this number. It is usually printed on your SIM card. It should also be printed somewhere in its package. However, if you do not have the package, and for any reason, your SIM card does not have it printed, there is another way. In some cell phones, it can be found in the settings options. Let’s show you how to find it:
- First, go to the “Settings” options.
- Then look for an option called “About“, “About Phone” or “About Device“.
- Finally, click on “Status” where you should see the ICCID number.
IMEI vs. IMSI vs. ICCID
Let’s summarize all the information that we know now about these codes since it can be a little bit confusing after all.
The IMEI stands for International Mobile Station Equipment Identity. The code is usually 15 digits long and is a unique number that identifies your mobile device. It means that no other cell phone or device will have the same IMEI. The number is created carefully, so it cannot be faked. The IMEI includes information about the origin, model, and serial number of the device. If you are going to buy a used cell phone, it is a good idea to check the IMEI with your local operator. Then you can be sure that the phone was not stolen. Unlike the ICCID, the IMEI has nothing to do with the SIM card.
The IMSI stands for International Mobile Subscriber Identifier. The number is usually 15 digits long, and it is used to identify the subscriber in a network. The IMSI number is composed of three main codes, which are the Mobile Country Code (MCC), Mobile Network Code (MNC), and Mobile Subscription Identification Number (MSIN).
It is related to the SIM card since it includes the Mobile Network Code (MNC), however, it does not identify your phone number, or the SIM card itself.
The number that identifies the phone number is also called MSISDN (Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network) and the one that identifies the SIM card is the ICCID.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ICCID stand for?
It stands for Integrated Circuit Card Identification..
What exactly is the ICCID number?
It is a unique number that identifies a SIM card.
What are the parts of the ICCID code?
The first two numbers identify the type of industry, next to the Country Code (CC), the Mobile Network Code (MNC), and finally the identification code.
Is the ICCID my phone number?
No, it should not be used as the phone number. It is the identification of your SIM card.
We hope that now you have a better understanding of the different codes related to SIM cards, especially the ICCID number. Manufacturers and network companies most commonly use them; however, it is also important for us as users to know about them.
