APN (Access Point Name) is a configuration setting that allows your phone to connect with your wireless carrier. It carries all the important, necessary information you need to connect to your carrier — which means it’s Ultra-important! Every mobile carrier has a unique APN.

Whenever you try to use your data, your carrier reads the APN settings to determine security measures, your network connection and allows you to connect to the Internet and use MMS picture messaging.

Read on to learn more about APN settings and more, including how to configure them to get the most out of your service.

What does APN stand for?

APN stands for Access Point Name.

Why do we need an APN?

As mentioned earlier, APN is an integral component of establishing a connection between your phone and your wireless carrier. Without it, you may not be able to use your service and you wouldn’t have access to things like the Internet or MMS picture messaging.

APNs have two main elements:

  • A network identifier, which shows which external Public Data Network (PDN) the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) is connected to and the services you want to access. To use an analogy, a network identifier is a waiter that informs the chef (PDN) about the orders placed by the customer (GGSN).
  • An operator identifier shows the Mobile Network Operator (MNO) that provides the data service. It includes two other components: the Mobile Network Code (MNC) and the Mobile Country Code (MCC). While the MNC is unique to the carrier, the MCC is based on the carrier’s region. Typically, the MNC and MCC are both three digits.

Why would I need to change my APN settings?

As you read, you may be wondering ‘what is APN used for’. The answer is that you may need to change your APN settings to ensure your device can properly connect to your wireless carrier’s mobile network for data services, to access the Internet and to use MMS. 

Incorrect or outdated APN settings can lead to issues like slow data speeds, inability to send or receive multimedia messages, or even a complete lack of mobile data. Changing or updating your APN settings is often required when switching carriers, using a new SIM card or if you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your mobile network.

what are the most important APN settings? APN name, MMS proxy and MMS port, APN, APN type, MMSC, and username and password

What are the most important APN settings?

Now that we’ve answered “what is an APN setting,” here are the most important APN settings to know.

  • APN Name: This is the identifier for your mobile carrier’s network. It allows your phone to recognize and connect to the right data service.
  • APN: This is the key setting that defines the gateway for mobile internet. It ensures your device connects to the correct network infrastructure for data services.
  • MMSC (Multimedia Messaging Service Center): This setting enables the sending and receiving of MMS (multimedia messages) on your phone.
  • MMS Proxy and MMS Port: These are used to route multimedia messages through the network and deliver them to your phone.
  • APN Type: This determines what the APN is used for, such as the Internet (the default), MMS, or a combination of both.
  • Username and Password: Some networks require a username and password to authenticate access to the network, although this is not always needed.

How to edit APN settings

How to edit your settings depends on the type of device you have and may vary slightly depending on which version you have. You can find step-by-step guides on editing your APN settings on Android phones and iPhones below.

how to edit APN settings on Android with 3 android deices that highlight Network & internet, mobile networks, and access point names

How to edit APN settings on Android

  • Open the Settings app: This can usually be done by swiping down from the top of your screen and tapping the gear icon or by selecting the Settings app from the app drawer
  • Go to ‘Network & Internet’ (or ‘Connections’ depending on your phone’s manufacturer):
    • On some phones, you may need to tap “More” to see additional network settings
  • Tap on ‘Mobile Network’ (or ‘Cellular Networks’)
  • Select ‘Access Point Names’: This will display a list of your phone’s current APN settings
  • Review the APN settings:
    • Tap on an APN to view its details, such as the name, server, MMSC, MMS proxy and more.
    • If necessary, you can edit or add a new APN by tapping the “+” icon
  • Save and activate: After making changes, tap the three-dot menu in the top right corner and select Save: Make sure the APN is selected (there should be a dot or checkmark next to it)
how to edit apn settings on iphone with 3 iphones that highlight cellular device options, cellular data network, and then cellular

How to edit APN settings on iPhone

  • Open the Settings app: Locate the gear icon on your home screen and tap it
  • Go to ‘Cellular’ or ‘Mobile Data’: Scroll down and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data on some versions)
  • Tap on ‘Cellular Data Options’ or ‘Mobile Data Options’: Depending on your iOS version, this may be the next step
  • Select ‘Cellular Network’ or ‘Mobile Data Network’: This will show the APN settings for your phone
  • Review or Edit the APN settings: You can view and edit details such as the APN, username, and password for data, MMS and other services
  • Save the changes: If you make any adjustments, ensure you save them by simply pressing the back button, as changes will be saved automatically
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“Note”

Ready to configure your APN settings?

We’ve covered everything from what APN is to different APN types to how to configure APN. We’ve also answered the questions ‘what is an APN setting’ and ‘what does APN mean’. So, whether you’re trying to troubleshoot your own APN issues, just want to learn more about APN in general, or are trying to get the most of your wireless service, you’re practically an APN expert! 

Now that you know how to configure APN settings, why not bring your phone over to Ultra Mobile? Tap the button below to learn more.