If you're new to eSIM data, it's understandable that you might not be sure if your eSIM plan is working correctly ... and worried you might actually still be using your primary/monthly phone plan for data instead.

After all, no one wants to see expensive roaming charges on their next mobile bill. You want to be absolutely certain you're using the proper data source, with zero surprises.

How to make sure your eSIM is working:

1. Double-check your roaming settings

If you have a primary data plan on your device, you'll want to make sure Data Roaming is set to "OFF" for that SIM. This will completely prevent your device from "roaming" on your primary plan, and trying to connect to other networks when you leave your regular coverage area.

Having Data Roaming "OFF" on your primary plan means your home carrier absolutely cannot charge you roaming fees, so double-checking this setting gives people a feeling of relief.

In fact, Data Roaming can always remain "OFF" for your primary plan, even when you're at home (since there's no need for your phone to "roam" when you're at home on your own network.)

Oh, but remember that your new eSIM must have Data Roaming set to "ON," so aloSIM is able to connect you to the best possible local network. This will never result in extra charges, and it's required so we have the ability to move you to a different network if a stronger connection arises.

2. Check that aloSIM is your device's source of data

Go back through your data package's activation instructions (for Android devices or for iPhones/iPads) Double-check that you've selected your aloSIM eSIM as your device's only source of data. 

• ANDROID DEVICES: How to choose aloSIM for mobile data
• iPHONES & iPADS: How to choose aloSIM for mobile data

3. Make sure you aren't switching between data plans

Since some devices have the ability to hop between data sources, you can ease your mind by making sure Allow Cellular Data Switching is "OFF." This forces your device to only use aloSIM for data, and not use your primary plan.

4. Turn off your device's Wi-Fi

Don't put your phone on Airplane Mode because that will prevent all connectivity, but you can turn your Wi-Fi off temporarily if you want to make sure your eSIM data plan is working correctly. Then your device can only rely on data for a connection.

5. Try using the internet

Once your Wi-Fi is off, you should see network connection bars at the top of your screen that indicate your eSIM is active. If you can pull up new websites (or refresh ones you're already on) and check social media apps, it means your eSIM data is working.

6. Turn your Wi-Fi back on

Now that you feel confident your eSIM data plan is working correctly, you can turn your Wi-Fi back on. After all, if there's a free connection available, why not take advantage of it and save your aloSIM data for places without Wi-Fi?

"I'm still worried I might need to pay roaming charges. Help!"

If you've gone through all of these checks and you're still worried you might be messing something up and racking up roaming charges through your home carrier, you always have the option to turn your primary plan off completely. 

Turning off your primary phone plan means you won't be able to call/text on your regular phone number. (Remember, your carrier may still charge you for those individual calls/texts, so it's a good idea to check with them about those rates before traveling.)

But if you don't care about calling or texting on your regular phone number (after all, there are lots of free and inexpensive eSIM calling options and eSIM texting options available), you can turn off that line and keep it off until you're back at home. This is the safe equivalent of removing the SIM card, except you won't actually be removing anything.