E-sim, Physical Sim cards: Know how your Sim works 

Sim cards are as important in using a smartphone as the smartphone itself. The “Sim” is an acronym for Subscriber Identity Module. A sim card is a small removable chip used in mobile devices for the identification of subscribers on a mobile network.

Each SIM card contains a unique International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number, which allows the network to identify and authenticate the subscriber. Identification is necessary for providing personalized services, billing, and ensuring the security of the network.

Functions of SIM cards

1. The IMSI number helps to identify the subscriber to the mobile network. This identification is crucial for network authentication and personalized services.
2. Necessary information is provided for authenticating and establishing a secure connection with the mobile network.
3. They can store a limited amount of personal data, such as contact information (phone numbers, names) and text messages.
4. SIM cards hold information about the user’s mobile network service provider, including the network operator’s name, logo, and service-related settings.
5. They store encryption keys and perform encryption functions to protect voice calls, text messages, and data transmissions from unauthorized access.

Types of SIM cards

There are two types of SIM cards; Physical SIM and e-sim

Physical SIM

It is a small, removable card that you insert into your device’s SIM card slot. It contains a chip that securely stores your subscriber information. They are three form factors of physical SIM:

Standard SIM: This is also known as mini-SIM): This is the largest form factor of SIM cards. It was the standard type used in older mobile phones.

Micro SIM: It is smaller than standard SIM cards. They gained popularity with the introduction of devices like the iPhone 4 and are still used in some older smartphones and tablets.

Nano SIM: This is the smallest of sim cards. They are the most common type of SIM card used in modern smartphones and tablets.

Advantages

1. Physical SIM cards are universally supported by a vast majority of mobile devices, regardless of the manufacturer or model.
2. Physical SIM cards are readily available.
3. It is easy to transfer between devices.
4. The activation process is generally well-understood and does not require specialized knowledge or technical expertise.
5. A physical SIM card is compatible with any SIM card slot, regardless of the device’s eSIM support.
6. Many people are familiar with the process of inserting and removing a SIM card.
7. Mobile network operators may provide specific plans or promotions that are exclusive to physical SIM card users.

Disadvantages

1. The process of removing and inserting sim cards can be inconvenient, especially if you frequently switch networks or travel to different regions with varying carrier coverage.
2. Physical SIM cards are small and easily lost or damaged.
3. When traveling internationally, having to enable international roaming with your carrier may be expensive.
4. Physical SIM cards store a limited amount of data.
5. They are susceptible to theft or unauthorized use.

 

Embedded SIM (eSIM)

Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIM is a programmable SIM that is embedded directly into a device, within the device’s circuitry. eSIMs are found in certain devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets.

Advantages

1. It is easy to switch between different mobile network operators or plans.
2. Many devices with eSIM support also offer dual SIM functionality, allowing you to have two active phone numbers on a single device.
3. The eSIM provisioning process can be done remotely.
4. They are not susceptible to physical damage, loss, or theft.
5. Device manufacturers have more flexibility in terms of design and form factor since they no longer need to accommodate a physical SIM card slot.
6. The embedded nature of eSIMs makes it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to tamper with or clone SIM cards.

Disadvantages

1. The availability and usage of eSIMs for some users are limited. Older devices may not have the necessary hardware or software capabilities to support eSIM functionality.
2. The availability of eSIM functionality depends on device manufacturers and mobile network operators. They need to implement and support eSIM technology in their devices and networks.
3. The process of activation may require an internet connection, additional steps, or technical support, which can be inconvenient for some users.
4. Since eSIMs are embedded within the device and cannot be physically removed, they may not be compatible with devices that still require physical SIM cards.
5. Some carriers may impose restrictions, require additional steps, or charge fees for switching carriers on an eSIM. It’s essential to check the specific policies and procedures of your carrier before making a switch.