So if you have a handset from these providers from 2021 or earlier, you might still need to contact them to get your PUK code. That means that if you've purchased a handset from your network since then you won't need to worry about getting a PUK from your network.Įven before then, many networks did away with selling locked phones, but there were a few that still locked their phones. Getting a PUK from your networkĪs of December 2021, no networks are allowed to sell locked phones, according to regulations set out by Ofcom. If you weren’t that forward-looking, you’ll need to get a PUK from your network.

Remember the plastic container tray that your SIM card came in when it arrived? Well, in the unlikely event that you had the foresight to keep it safe, you’ll be able to find your PUK written on the tray. But a PAC code is only required when you want to transfer your existing mobile phone number to the network you’re joining. Like a PUK, it’s a unique sequence of digits and plays a role when you’re switching networks. Either way, when a phone is locked by the network in these circumstances, you’ll need a PUK to unlock it before you can start using your phone again.Ī PAC (porting authorisation code) is very different. You’ll also need to get a PUK code in the event that you mistakenly enter the wrong PIN code and you are automatically locked out.ĭepending on the network you’re signed up to, you may be allowed up three incorrect tries, or up to ten. You’ll need one in the event that your handset is locked by your current network and you want to use a SIM card from another network.

What is a PUK for? Is it different from a PAC Code?Ī PUK, which is sometimes known as a network unlocking code (NUC) or personal unlocking code (PUC), is a unique sequence of eight digits that your network must supply, as long as you fulfil certain criteria.Ī PUK is required when you want to unlock a phone. We’ll also look at which networks require PUKs to unlock phones, as well as clear up the difference between a PUK and a PAC (porting authorisation code). In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what a PUK code is and outline the easiest ways to get one. You may want to unlock your phone because you want to use it with another SIM card, or because you’ve opted to switch network.Īlternatively, it may be that you’ve accidentally entered the wrong PIN too many times and now need a PUK to unlock your SIM card and start using it again. Personal unlocking keys (PUKs) are required by some networks when you want to unlock your phone.

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