What is an APN access point in Android phone settings: definition, meaning, setting

Hi all! Today we are looking at the question - what is APN. APN (Access Point Name) is a mobile network identifier that allows subscribers using GPRS, 3G or LTE to access data services provided by the operator. WAP, Internet, MMS - without a properly configured APN, the network capabilities of smartphones or tablets are severely limited. Therefore, immediately after purchasing a SIM card, it is important to understand what APN settings are needed, where to look for suitable parameters and where to ultimately add them.

What is apn

You bought a smartphone. Enter your login and password. We made all the initial settings. Uploaded reference books, photos, videos. Beauty! Now we need to share this joy with others ! But how? Internet is not connected! We connect it ourselves. First problem - What is apn in the phone settings? Apn is a wireless access point.

APN - access point name

APN abbreviation - Access Point Name, which translated from English means the name of the access point. This is an identifier of a packet data network, which allows the subscriber to use GPRS, 3G, 4G LTE Internet, as well as access various services, such as MMS. To work, you first need to obtain automatic APN settings for the operator you are using, or enter the necessary APN parameters manually. You also need a positive account balance or the presence of a non-tariffed package of services, for example Internet traffic.

When using services, the operator receives an apn request from a mobile device, processes it and redirects it to the desired address. Similarly, when receiving data, the operator receives an apn request, and then sends it to the recipient via the cellular network.

Why open?

The port forwarding setup generally looks like this:

• Some program from the network, trying to connect to the user’s computer, encounters a closed port.
• The user learns that for this program to work, the port must be opened.
• He goes to the router’s web interface, and if he knows how, he opens the port.
• The next time you try to connect, the program receives a response, and mutual communication between the computers is configured.

In addition to the above web server, the DC network can serve as an illustration of such a connection.

This is what a standard DC network or torrent-tracker looks like. In the center we have a server that arranges the initial connection, but then the machines communicate without going through it. To connect, the computer receives a request from the network, unlike regular surfing, when pages are opened upon request from the user.

What are the access point settings for?

In most cases, mobile communication services are used using smartphones and phones. These devices must be configured in a certain way to transmit a packet of information.

First of all, these settings are checked by the mobile operator providing this service.

This allows him to determine

• List of IP addresses assigned to this gadget;
• Data protection and encoding tools;
• The procedure for working with additional devices connected to this channel;

Correct IPN settings allow you to install the desired packet data network (PDN) for information exchange. In this case, it is possible to identify and select a specific service:

• communication with the WAP wireless application server;
• MMS multimedia messaging protocol;
• packet radio communications;
• directly Internet;

Two parts

Despite such extensive functionality, the APN structure is quite compact and consists of two parts:

• The first (mandatory) is the network identifier. The name of the connected external network that has a special support node is written here. In addition, the type of service requested by the user may be added to this information.
• The second is the operator identifier. Here the packet domain in which the operator operates is already indicated and the GGSN node responsible for its connection with the Internet Protocol (IP) is located. It is also mandatory to define MCC and MNC codes, which respectively identify the country and operator.

In simple terms, without correctly setting up the APN, working with the Internet via a mobile network is out of the question. How relevant this is is needless to explain, since this topic is the most promising today.

Software and application developers are moving their products to the mobile platform whenever possible. Now the phone is the main intermediary between the network and the user (in games, at work, at home, during financial transactions). For their part, this is actively supported and developed by gadget manufacturers and operators, providing support and distribution of high-speed data transfer standards (LTE and, currently being finalized, 5G).

And of course, we, users, are delighted with the opportunity to access any quality content anywhere in our environment. To do this, you need to correctly configure the APN settings. Those who like to use VPN to access prohibited resources can rest easy. The identifying information you exchange with the operator will not be shared online.

Description of the telecom operator “Fly”

The Letai operator is a well-known brand of the Tattelecom provider, which operates in Tatarstan. Initially, Tattelecom offered only digital television and home Internet services - the provider did not have mobile communications. It appeared in 2014. As of January 2022, the Letai mobile operator is already used by 690 thousand people.

"Letai" is considered a mobile brand, the network of which operates in Tatarstan

The operator has many tariffs that are beneficial for people with different needs. The quality of communication does not lag behind - the company has its own network of base stations to create 4G coverage.

How to set the necessary settings?

Previously, this process was carried out by sending an SMS request to connect Internet services within a certain tariff. The operator responded by sending the settings, saving which the subscriber received access to the mobile Internet and other services. Over time, operators optimized this process and began to independently send the necessary information for the APN as soon as the SIM card was in the new device.

Despite this service, manual APN configuration is still relevant. The need for it arises when the parameters are lost for some reason or the automatic identification fails. Now I will tell you how to do this yourself, and you will see that it is much easier than remembering the request code or using other methods.

To begin with, I recommend understanding the settings of your smartphone. And find the place where you will enter the data.

• In the most common Android devices, your path in the settings menu will be as follows: “Mobile network” (you may find it in the “More…” section, depending on the software version) – “Access points (APN)”. Next, if you have a dual-SIM model, select an operator. And we see many parameters (we will return to them later).
• On Apple phones, in the settings we find: “Cellular (data)” – “Data settings” – “Cellular data network”. Here you will see concise APN settings for individual services;

• On Windows Phone devices, everything is even simpler: scroll through the numerous settings towards the end of the list, where “Access Point” awaits you.

Select the operator and get to the desired parameter entry menu.

What to prescribe?

Now directly about what this means in the settings. Which fields should I fill out and what should I enter there? I ask you, my dear friends, to remember simple rules that will allow you to install an APN, even if you forget something. For each access point, we fill in only three fields: the APN itself, the username (username) and password. The last two values ​​are the same in most cases and are the name of the operator.

I think it will be easier for you if I provide these settings according to the scheme (APN / name / password) for the main Russian operators:

• Megafon (internet / gdata / gdata) or (internet.ltmsk / gdata / gdata);
• MTS (internet.mts.ru / mts / mts);
• Beeline (internet.beeline.ru / beeline / beeline);

As you can see, everything is logical and easy enough to remember. Also, do not forget to give a name to the created (or modified) access point and save it.

Perhaps someone else uses 3G modems. They are similarly configured through a software interface on a computer. But such devices have lost their relevance, since now it is much easier and more profitable to distribute high-speed Internet from your smartphone by switching it to the appropriate operating mode.

What is an Access Point Name (APN)

APN is the information your phone uses to connect to your carrier's network. It lists the addresses your phone uses to connect to the network, the ports used to process Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) messages, the types of data a particular APN uses, and other pieces of information to ensure your phone works properly.

Some of the settings, such as "APN Type", may be optional and your phone will still work if it is not 100% correct. Others, such as "MMSC" and "APN", are much more important and your phone will not work if they are entered incorrectly.

Luckily, most phones have a built-in APN for popular carriers, so all you have to do is insert your SIM card and let your phone do its magic. The phone already has an APN and it knows which one to load to connect to a given network.

How to add or change your APN

If you really need to change your APN settings, it's pretty easy to do. Start by opening the Settings app on your phone. The exact menu item will vary depending on the device and manufacturer, but click on the menu that controls your network settings. On Honor 8 lite running EMUI 8 (Android this is called “Wireless Networks”. Then tap “Mobile Network”.

If your device supports dual SIM cards, then find the one you need and select “Access Point Names (APN)”.

Click on the three menu dots in the top right corner, then select New Hotspot.

Your APN settings may be included in the package with your SIM card, or you may need to find one. Enter the details exactly as they are listed, then tap the checkmark in the top right to save your changes.

You may also need to make changes to your existing APN. To make these changes, click on the APN you want to change. Click on each category and then update the details as needed. Tap the check mark in the top right corner to save when you're done.

Once you set the APN, you won't need to change it again unless you switch carriers or reset your phone.

Using a modem

How else can you turn on the Internet on Android? Try using a modem for your Android tablet (usb modem). This device actually works through a USB port. The modem can be used on both a PC and a mobile phone. The configured modem works via a SIM card and is actually the same mobile Internet. The connected Internet will provide speeds of up to 7 Mbit/s, which will allow you to quickly download games and applications from the Play Market. On a PC you will need to install a special driver, but a mobile device does not have a disk drive, so the software will automatically install from the modem via USB.

How to connect a modem

To do this you need:

1. Connect the device to the gadget via USB.
2. Go to “Network settings” (or similar), and then activate “Data transfer” and 3G.
3. Create an APN access point (described earlier), having previously obtained the data from the provider.
4. Save the point. Restart your gadget.

Now your tablet is a real mini-computer with the Internet. How to turn off the Internet? You can turn it off by pressing the corresponding button and removing the modem from the USB.

If you can't access certain sites, they may be blocked in your region. Then you will need a VPN for Android. How to set up a VPN? Here you need:

1. Obtain the necessary data from the provider first or find it online.
2. In "Wireless Networks" select VPN.
3. Enter the server address, password, etc.
4. Save settings.

In most cases, a VPN solves the problem of blocked access to some sites. It replaces your IP address with another one, and the system allows you access.

Report content

Common APN Options

• Name . It is indicated either arbitrarily (no additional verification of the validity of the input is performed on the receiving server) or in accordance with the information received on the official website of the provider. As an option - Beeline Internet.
• APN . Exact ID. In most cases it resembles a URL, like internet.beeline.ru.
• Port , server and proxy. Text fields that do not require filling.
• Username and password . The parameters are issued by the provider or operator. They contain mostly letters, but in rare cases numbers.
• Authentication type . PAP or CHAP. Preference is for PAP - this is what modern cellular operators use, but there are exceptions. You should look for details in support.
• APN type . In the Type section of the APN access point, regardless of the operator, the combination default, supl, mms is indicated. It is important to maintain the writing order (without spaces between words and punctuation marks, as well as case), otherwise the selected settings will not work as intended.

Mobile operators rarely divide the listed settings into categories: along with the WAP wireless protocol, dedicated packet radio communications, Internet and MMS multimedia messages automatically take effect.

Other manufacturers

AsusAlcatelAllviewSamsungBLUHuaweiXiaomiAppleLGAcerNokiaMeizuArchosZTEOppoHTCLenovoSonyVivoTECNOMotorolaBlackBerryMicromaxLavaGioneeQMobileMicrosoftOnePlusMaxwestCoolpadPanasonicReal meWikoEnergizerYezzGigabytesleEcoBQIntexHonorCelkonchicXO LOBlackviewVeryKoolIcemobileSony EricssonUMiYUsharpKyoceraVodafoneHPAmazonBenQPalmCatUnnectoPhilipsPantechDellVertuMIUHaierSonimessentialGarminInfinixT-MobileKarbonnGeeksPhoneYotaGeneral MobileHighscreenToshibaCSLNexianOukuKyocera SanyoMyPhoneHKCi-Mob ileINQFujitsuNECQiGi

View and change APN settings on iPhone

Entering incorrect APN settings may result in loss of cellular data connection and may result in additional charges. Do not change the APN without direct instructions from your carrier or mobile device administrator. Contact your carrier to confirm the correct APN settings.

If allowed by your carrier, you can view APN settings in one of the following locations:

• Settings > Cellular Data > Data Options > Cellular Network
• Settings > Cellular > Data settings > Cellular data network.

If your device doesn't have any of these options, contact your network provider.

To change settings, click in each of the fields and enter the information provided by the operator. The settings will be saved automatically. The ability to change your cellular data settings may vary depending on your operator. If the operator needs a different APN setting, they can use a configuration profile with the correct settings.

If you don't use a configuration profile, updating iOS will reset any changes you've made to your APN settings. If you changed your APN settings before updating iOS, they will be restored to their default values. After updating iOS, you may need to re-enter the desired settings.

Reset APN Settings on iPhone

To restore your default carrier APN data, go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > Reset Settings. If a configuration profile is installed, the default information for that profile will be used.

If you're using an iPhone or iPad in a corporate environment, you may need to contact your mobile device administrator to change the APN. If you have changed the APN settings set by your mobile device administrator from a configuration profile, follow these steps to undo the changes:

• On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data and tap Reset Settings.
• On iPad: Remove the configuration profile and then add it again.

If you're a mobile device administrator, you can use Apple Configurator, Profile Manager in macOS Server, or another mobile device management solution to change APNs and other advanced settings.

Table: mobile Internet tariffs from the operator

Where to add and where to edit APN

Before adding identifier parameters to the “Settings” of mobile devices with Android or iOS operating systems, you will have to search for up-to-date information for the SIM card of the operator you are using. Thematic articles from the “Technical Support” section on the official websites of Beeline, MTS or Megafon will help you cope with the task.

ADVICE! For setup for well-known operators, you can view the instructions on our portal here.

Often, in addition to “manual” settings, “automatic” ones are also provided: the operator offers to select a smartphone or tablet model, indicate the mobile phone number, and then apply the configuration, saving a lot of time. If the manual typing process is important, then you will have to act differently. First, open “Settings” on Android or iOS and select “Data transfer” (or “Network data”).

Then select “Access points” or “Cellular network” (section names depend on the operating system, firmware and software version).

The last step is to consistently and accurately (that is, following the input rules, skipping unnecessary text fields and not experimenting with the specified values) copy the information from the operator’s official website into the “Settings” of Android or iOS. Changes are saved automatically and take effect within 5-10 minutes. In some situations, you will need to reboot or temporarily disconnect from the network, including Wi-Fi.

Mobile application Volna Mobile

Employees of the Volna Mobile company created a mobile application specifically for smartphones based on IOS and Android. In order to improve the service, the client can now use a personal account directly on the phone. To a large extent, the functionality of the application duplicates all the features of the computer version. However, it also became available:

• Information about weather conditions according to your location;
• Useful news about discounts and promotions;
• Addresses of Volna Mobile service centers;
• Data on the operator's communication coverage map;
• Description of the sights of Crimea;
• Poster of events within the peninsula.

How to set up apn

Apn or Access Point Name is a type of wireless network access point that the user uses to connect to some services, for example, MMS, Internet.

If the apn settings were set incorrectly, there will be no connection to the Internet, and “apn error in phone” will appear on the phone display. The most common reason is an incorrect network name.

To set it up correctly, you need to know the settings of the mobile operator whose SIM card is inserted into your smartphone. For some operators, the settings depend on the SIM card tariff plan. In some cases, the geographic location of the connection matters.

• Find “Settings” in your phone
• "Wireless network"
• "More"
• "Mobile networks"
• "Access point"

Setting up a regular Beeline SIM card apn:

• set in the settings internet.beeline.ru
• in the username line we set beeline
• and in the password line – beeline

Megaphone apn settings:

• Line apn – internet
• in the other two – gdata

Setting up apn tele2:

• We indicate the apn point internet.tele2.ru
• username and password fields – leave empty

Setting up apn yota:

• Name - yota
• apn point –internet yota

Rostelecom apn setup:

• Name: Rostelecom
• APN- internet.usi.ru

The article lists the settings of the most popular cellular operators.

Remember that the correct settings affect your network connection, and therefore your communication and work. Be careful when entering them!

Possible problems and solutions

The operator's clients understood how to set up an access point on Yota. But what problems can arise when using the Internet?

Now the company has introduced a complete ban on Wi-Fi distribution. This is done so that cunning users will not be able to connect other devices to the Internet via their smartphone in the future.

The ban is set at the program level and it is very difficult to remove the restrictions.

To bypass the blocking you will need root rights, a number of applications and a huge amount of free time. But it’s better not to even try to remove the restrictions, there are several reasons for this:

1. You will have to root the phone, and this is not such an easy procedure.
2. Not all smartphones can be rooted.
3. There is a risk of turning the device into a “brick”. Instead of free Internet for your laptop, you will receive a service invoice.
4. Without special knowledge, it is difficult to cope with all stages.
5. You will have to spend a lot of time, and a positive result is not guaranteed.

It’s much easier to buy a modem from Yota for a laptop. Yes, you will have to pay for services from the operator and purchase equipment to connect to the network. But your time and nerves are much more valuable, so you shouldn’t save too much.

How to set up an APN hotspot on Android

Before starting the instructions, we note that the principle of setting up APN depends on the version of Android and the firmware of the device. Because of this, the names of some items and sections may differ. Please pay attention to this when following this guide:

1. Open the settings.
2. Go to the “SIM cards and mobile networks” tab.
3. Click on the name of the SIM card you are using.
4. Go to the “Access Points (APN)” tab.
5. Click on the “New access point” button.
6. We pay special attention to the lines “Authentication Type” and “APN Type”. In the first of them we set the parameter “PAP”, and in the second – “default, supl”.
7. You can enter any value in the “Name” field. For an MTS access point, the standard value is “mts-internet”, for Beeline – “Beeline Internet”, and for Megafon – “Megafon Internet”.
8. In the “APN” line we indicate a unique value. It is different for each mobile operator and is often located on the official website.
9. Next, come up with any password and enter it in the appropriate column. You also need to enter the “MCC” code. Its standard value is 257.

Now save the settings and reboot the smartphone. If you cannot manually create an access point, then use the help of your cellular operator:

• MTS . Send a blank message to 1234 or contact a call center employee.
• Beeline . Call 06503.
• Megaphone . Send a message with the text “1” to 5049.
• Tele2 . Call 679.

You can go the other way by installing the Offline SIM Database application from Google Play. The program is completely free and helps to configure the Access Point Name correctly. Launch the utility, then:

1. Click on the “Search APN Settings for this SIM” button.
2. On the next page, select the type of setting you are interested in. In our case, this is “MTS Internet”.
3. The program automatically writes the necessary values, which can be copied and pasted into the APN settings. If your smartphone has root rights, then you don’t need to copy anything. Just click on the “Add These Settings” button and all changes will automatically take effect.

Thus, APN is a function that allows you to use the mobile Internet and send MMS. To configure it, it is recommended to contact your cellular operator, or enter all the parameters manually.

For all users

APN names, usernames and passwords are case sensitive. Please make sure they are entered in correct uppercase and lowercase letters. For example, when setting up an APN in favor of Beeline, the APN must be exactly the same as mms.beeline.ru although it can be entered as MMS.BEELINE.RU or Mms.beeline.ru.

For most settings pages we have provided alternative settings to try if the basic settings provided in the article do not work. Therefore, please check the bottom area of ​​the page to see if alternative settings are provided. If this is the case the title should be usually called Beeline more settings to try BLU Tank Xtreme 4.0. Click on the boxes in this article for alternative settings.

Make sure you select the correct phone modal. If not go to the main page and select the correct phone modal. If your phone modal is not in the list, you can always select the settings of your OS version:AndroidAOKPBlackBerryCyanogenModFirefox OSiOSiPhoneNokia 3310UbuntuWindows Phone

Reboot your phone after saving the configuration.

Additional Information

If there are funds on your phone balance to pay for the tariff, the Internet access settings have been entered correctly, but there is no connection, first of all you need to turn off and turn on the gadget. This method works 90%.

If after rebooting the device, access to the network does not appear, you can try inserting another working SIM card into the phone. This will allow you to determine the reason for the lack of connection.

If the Internet works on the second SIM card, then the provider provided incorrect settings. In this case, it is recommended to contact the Beeline service center for help. If necessary, the manager of the cellular communication salon will change the SIM card while maintaining the old number.

It is more difficult when the problems are related to the mobile device itself, for example, incorrect operation of the network module and other components of the smartphone. In such situations, the gadget is sent in for repair.