How to activate replacement SIM in data only device

[zcobb]

For some reason Virgin sent me a replacement SIM and told me I have to activate it in 14 days. But this SIM is in a 4G router and the Virgin instructions are only for phones.

I have searched the website but can find no instructions.

And help much appreciated.

Stephen

[Carley_S]

Hi @zcobb

Welcome to the community. Sorry to hear that you're not able to complete activating your SIM replacement. 

The SIM would be for a mobile phone or mobile broadband device and would not be able to be used for a 4G router unfortunately. You can find this information in our Acceptable Use Policy. Here is states under 3.7 Your mobile SIM card is for use in a personal mobile or mobile broadband device, such as a dongle or mobile Wi-Fi device. It is not intended for use in any other type of device, including 4G routers. We reserve the right to suspend your services if we believe abuse is taking place and if you are using an unlimited tariff, we may ask you to move to a plan with a fixed data allowance.

[zcobb]

Thanks for that quick reply. Can I use the SIM in a phone that is sometimes used as a hotspot?

Stephen 

[Carley_S]

Yes absolutely, you can use the SIM in a phone that is sometimes used to hotspot. 

[enlli · Accepted solution]

Use depends on your router.

A small MiFi device which is portable has always been allowed. The permanently wired larger router are the ones that cause problems.

With the smaller devices I activate in a phone first and then insert it into the unit

[zcobb]

Interesting. Thanks.

BTW, what problems do those larger routers cause? Just curious.

Stephen

[enlli]

It's to do with network capacity. People with permanent routers tend to have them connected for longer. Cell towers can only handle a certain number of connections at once and have a limited bandwidth. 

[zcobb]

Thanks. Very helpful.

Stephen