Introduction
The OnePlus Nord series has a solid reputation for boasting expensive features for moderate prices; thus, it attracts consumers who are in the tech world and those who want a bit of everything, but on a budget. Among the many areas that are focused on while configuring devices, the Access Point Name for connectivity to the internet, MMS, and other carrier-dependent services, is quite essential.In the scope of this detailed review, we will explore APN settings in the OnePlus Nord in terms of what it is and their importance, how they are configured, common issues, and their solutions. This guide is for both the peoples who’ve had the OnePlus experience as well as to those who haven’t.
What Are APN Settings?
APN, short for Access Point Name, creates a kind of entry point, or better still gateway, between the mobile network and the internet. And this is why APN settings come very critical in a smartphone. They tell your device how to connect using your mobile carrier’s network to the internet. Meaning, the APN settings formula comes as a combination of the network name, username, password, and so on, setup parameters particular to your mobile carrier. So, with properly configured APN settings, OnePlus Nord can access the internet, send and receive multimedia messages (MMS), or use other network-dependent services.
Benefits associated with correct APN settings
Access to the internet: As the most basic function of an APN setting, it allows the access to the internet from your device. Wrong or missing APN settings can cause the inability to connect to the internet, reduced speed, or even no connection.
APN settings also cater to sending and receiving MMS messages. Without the correct settings, you cannot send photos, videos, or other multimedia content through your messaging app.
Carrier-Specific Features: These specific features may include tethering, VoLTE (Voice over LTE), and finally Wi-Fi calling. Without the correct APN settings, these may be disabled or not work properly.
Roaming: Yes, the right APN settings need to be set up while going out of the country for using foreign networks and accessing data services. They may require the manual update of APN settings in certain cases to work with the local carrier.
Configure APN on your OnePlus Nord
Configuring APN settings on the OnePlus Nord is quite easy. This is a step-by-step guide:
Entering into APN Settings:
Open the “Settings” app on your OnePlus Nord.
Scroll down and choose, “Wi-Fi & Network”.
Tap on “SIM & Network”.
Select SIM for which APN settings are to be configured.
Tap on “Access Point Names”.
Add New APN:
Tap the “+” icon at the top right corner to create a new APN. Fill up the required details given by your mobile carrier. The following details are usually provided:
Name: A name that describes the APN.
APN: The access point name of your carrier.
Proxy: Leave blank unless specified by your carrier.
Port: Leave blank unless specified by your carrier.
Username: Leave blank unless specified by your carrier.
Password: Leave blank unless specified by your carrier.
MMSC: The Multimedia Messaging Service Center URL that your carrier has given you.
Thus, this field must be left blank, unless carrier-specific: MMS Proxy.
The MMS Port must be left empty, unless otherwise specified by the carrier.
MCC: the Mobile Country Code from your carrier.
MNC: the Mobile Network Code from your carrier.
Authentication-type: “None,” “PAP,” or “CHAP,” specify by carrier.
APN Type: type of APN “default,” “supl,” “mms.”
APN Protocol: choose based on carrier requirements between IPv4 and IPv6 or both.
APN Roaming Protocol: like APN Protocol but as per roaming.
Bearer: type of the network (LTE, HSPA, and so on) or unspecified.
Saving APN: When you enter all the required details tap three-dot menu on top-right corner.
Select Save. “Go back to the APN list and select the APN you created.”
Testing the APN Settings: After the APN configuration, access the internet to send a message and MMS verification if everything is working fine.
Common Problems of APN Settings
There are many problems that have been noticed on users with the correct APN settings while causing hindrances to the mobile experience. Here are some oftentimes events and their disappeared solutions:
Not An Internet
Reason: The incorrect APN settings or if you’ve selected a nonexistent APN can sometimes be the cause of this.
Solution: Check the APN now again and ensure that they actually match what your carrier gave you. Also, check to see that the APN is correctly selected in the list of the APNs.
Can’t Send/Receive MMS:
Reason: The most common cause of MMS-related issues is an incorrect MMSC, MMS Proxy, or MMS Port setting.
Solution: Make sure the settings for MMSC, MMS Proxy, and MMS Port are as provided by your carrier, without any changes to it.
Slow Internet Speed:
Reason: Wrong APN type or use of wrong protocol has been the cause of slow speeds.
Solution: Make sure the APN Type says default, and also enter the correct value for APN Protocol (IPv4, IPv6, or both) as instructed by your carrier.
Roaming Trouble:
Cause: If roaming problems occur, then it might be possible that the APN Roaming Protocol is not set correctly.
Solution: Change the APN Roaming Protocol by those specified up from your carrier to use this for international purposes.
VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling Fails:
Cause: Some carriers require specific APN settings for VoLTE or Wi-Fi calling.
Solution: Contact your carrier to verify that the APN settings are appropriate for using the features and update if necessary.
APN Settings By Carrier
Each mobile operator has its unique way of having an APN setting. Below are some APN data listed according to popular carriers, but one should always check with his carrier to get the most accurate and updated information.
Verizon:
Name: Verizon
APN: internet
MMSC: http://mms.vtext.com/servlets/mms
MMS Proxy: Not set
MMS Port: 80
MCC: 311
MNC: 480
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4
Bearer: Unspecified
AT&T:
Name: ATT
APN: nxtgenphone
MMSC: http://mmsc.mobile.att.net
MMS Proxy: proxy.mobile.att.net
MMS Port: 80
MCC: 310
MNC: 410
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4
Bearer: Unspecified
T-Mobile:
Name: T-Mobile
APN: fast.t-mobile.com
MMSC: http://mms.msg.eng.t-mobile.com/mms/wapenc
MMS Proxy: Not set
MMS Port: Not set
MCC: 310
MNC: 260
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
Sprint:
Name: Sprint
APN: cinet.spcs
MMSC: http://mms.sprintpcs.com
MMS Proxy: 68.28.31.7
MMS Port: 80
MCC: 310
MNC: 120
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
Vodafone (UK):
Name: Vodafone UK
APN: internet
MMSC: http://mms.vodafone.co.uk/servlets/mms
MMS Proxy: 212.183.137.012
MMS Port: 8799
MCC: 234
MNC: 15
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
Even when the APN settings have been correctly entered, some connectivity issues may seem to arise. Some of these issues and solutions are as follows to assist in the perfect network operation on your OnePlus Nord.
1. APN settings not sticking
Often, having set up the APN, the settings may not save or revert back to the original settings. This can be exasperating because it prevents connection of your mobile data network.
Solution:
Make sure you have correctly filled in all fields and input the proper APN type.
Once APN settings are saved, reboot your device to adopt the said changes.
If the problem still persists, then you can opt for resetting your network settings: Settings > System > Reset options. Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth. This will reset all network settings: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, hence requiring reconfiguration.
2. Data Connection Drops Intermittently
Intermittent loss of data connectivity could result in the wrong APN settings, network issues, and device problems.
Solution:
Make sure to double-check your APN settings and see if they match your carrier-provided information.
Make sure that your SIM card is properly inserted. It should be damage-free.
Try to see if the issue persists in different locations. If so, the issue is probably with the network.
Try toggling Airplane Mode on and off.
If this does not work, it is best to ask your carrier if they are having any network issues or outages.
3. Failed Sending or Receiving MMS Messages.
In most cases, MMS problems stem from frequently incorrect APN settings, especially in cases of MMSC, MMS Proxy, and MMS Port fields.
Solution:
Check that MMSC, MMS Proxy, and MMS Port fields follow instructions given by the carrier.
If MMS still doesn’t work, then try clearing the cache for the messaging app:
Go to Settings>Apps and notifications>See all apps.
Find your messaging app and tap on it.
Select Storage & cache>Clear cache.
Now restart the device and try checking MMS functionality again.
4. Slow Mobile Data Speeds
Troublingly slow mobile data gives frustrations because it has become essential in every aspect of one’s day, namely work or entertainment.
Solution:
Check APN settings to see if APN Type is set to “default” or “default,supl” for connecting to the internet.
Check APN Protocol for IPv4/IPv6 or as recommended by your carrier.
Your OnePlus Nord must be set to the right network mode (for instance: 4G LTE), so it can check under Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > SIM & Network > Preferred Network Type.
If in case your carrier has 5G services, check if your OnePlus Nord supports it, and then select 5G as your preferred network type.
The final option could be that the problem persists due to network congestion or coverage issues, so you should contact your carrier.
5. VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling Not Working
VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling are advanced features that allow better call quality by using different connection types such as LTE and Wi-Fi; if these features are not working, the problem could either be caused by an unsupported carrier or by the absence of necessary APNs.
Conform that your carrier accommodates VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling on the OnePlus Nord.
Ensure and confirm that VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling are enabled on your device by going to Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > SIM & Network. Then, toggle ON for VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling.
Update your APN settings according to the latest guidelines issued by your carrier about APN settings, as some carriers say these features work specifically with such APN settings.
If the problem is still there, you should call up your carrier and confirm whether VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling are available in your area and if your plan truly supports these functionalities.
Advanced APN Settings Explained
For the majority of users, however, the standard APN settings of their carrier are enough to offer good reliability in terms of internet connectivity along with MMS functionalities. However, for those curious about the more technical side of things pertaining to APN settings, a short description of some advanced-level options is as follows:
1. APN Protocol and Roaming Protocol
The APN Protocol determines the internet protocol type that is to be used for your connection. Choose one from the three options: IPv4, IPv6, or IPv4/IPv6 dual-stack.
IPv4: The old internet protocol widely supported by most networks. Choose this if your carrier does not support IPv6.
IPv6: The new internet protocol allows address space larger than that previously available. Some modern networks support IPv6, and can have better performance and security.
IPv4/IPv6: This is a dual-stack configuration that allows your device to use both IPv4 and IPv6 simultaneously or according to the support that is available from the network.
This is much the same, except that it refers to your device roaming on a foreign network. Normally advisable to set both the APN Protocol and Roaming Protocol to IPv4/IPv6 if your operator supports it, as it ensures compatibility with the greatest number of networks.
2. Bearer
The selection of bearer indicates the network type the APN should operate on. These include:
LTE: Network type for 4G LTE intended for high-speed data.
HSPA: Network type for 3G and moderate network speeds.
GPRS/EDGE: Network type for 2G and when the area is not well covered.
Unspecified: the device can connect to any available network types, usually the best choice unless you want to limit the connection to a certain kind.
3. MVNO Type
An MVNO Type is the type of MVNO; these are entities that do not have their network facilities but sell the carriers’ wireless access or capacity. The MVNO Type will allow you to connect your device to the networks.
The common MVNO Types are:
SPN (Service Provider Name): authenticates the name of a carrier for the customer;
IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity): The identifier unique to the SIM card;
GID (Group Identifier Level 1): The code identified by some MVNOs for their subscribers.
None: If you are not using an MVNO, this should be set to None.
4. Authentication Type
The way in which the device authenticates to the network is determined by this setting. The options are:
None: no need for any form of authentication, quite uncommon;
PAP: Password Authentication Protocol; sends your credentials unencrypted;
CHAP: Challenge-Handshake Authentication Protocol; a more secure method where your credential is encrypted;
PAP or CHAP: Device can use whichever method is supported by the network.
Most people find the default option provided by the carrier to be enough; but if they experience problems of connecting to the network, perhaps changing the Authentication Type might help.
APN settings from the most popular MVNOs
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) basically run on the gorges of major carriers but somehow its APN settings are different. The following are the APN settings for some of the popular MVNOs:
1. Mint Mobile (USA)
Name: Mint Mobile
APN: wholesale
MMSC: http://wholesale.mmsmvno.com/mms/wapenc
MMS Proxy: Not set
MMS Port: Not set
MCC: 310
MNC: 260
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
2. Ting (USA)
Name: Ting Data
APN: wholesale
MMSC: http://wholesale.mmsmvno.com/mms/wapenc
MMS Proxy: Not set
MMS Port: Not set
MCC: 310
MNC: 260
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
3. Giffgaff (UK)
Name: giffgaff
APN: giffgaff.com
MMSC: http://mmsc.mediamessaging.co.uk:8002
MMS Proxy: 193.113.200.195
MMS Port: 8080
MCC: 234
MNC: 10
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,supl,mms
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
4. Tesco Mobile (UK)
Name: Tesco Mobile
APN: prepay.tesco-mobile.com
MMSC: http://mmsc.mms.o2.co.uk:8002
MMS Proxy: 193.113.200.195
MMS Port: 8080
MCC: 234
MNC: 10
Authentication Type: Not set
APN Type: default,mms,supl
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
The Bearer setting is usually left at “Unspecified” for all MVNOs unless they indicate otherwise. This means that the OnePlus Nord will connect to the network type absolutely available, maintaining flexibility and constant collection on 4G LTE, 3G, or 2G network.
5. Lebara Mobile (Australia)
Lebara Mobile
APN: live.vodafone.com
MMSC: http://mmsc1.vodafone.com.au:8002
MMS Proxy: 10.202.2.60
MMS Port: 8080
MCC: 505
MNC: 03
Authentication Type: None
APN Type: default,supl,mms
APN Protocol: IPv4
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4
Bearer: Unspecified
6. Amaysim (Aus)
Name: Amaysim
APN: yesinternet
MMSC: http://mmsc.optus.com.au:8002
MMS Proxy: 61.88.190.10
MMS Port: 8070
MCC: 505
MNC: 02
Authentication Type: PAP
APN Type: default,supl,mms
APN Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
APN Roaming Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Bearer: Unspecified
Optimizing Network Performance on OnePlus Nord.
You can improve your device’s network performance in many ways besides configuring your APN setting correctly. These are sure to improve the internet speed and patency while providing a more reliable connection.
1. Keep Your Device Software Up to Date
Most of the updates released by OnePlus are available for speed improvements, bug-fixes, or enhancements to network connectivity. So, it’s prudent to always have the latest software on your device that is optimized for network performance.
Check for updates in Settings > System > System updates. Download and install any available update.
2. Clear Cache Partition
Your device will build up cache memory over time making it slow and in some cases not connecting properly. By clearing the cache partition, you can alleviate the problem without removing personal data.
Cache clearing partition
Power off your OnePlus Nord.
Press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously until the OnePlus logo appears.
Wipe Cache Partition is the option you navigate to through Volume buttons, and you select it through the Power button.
Restart your device after the process gets completed.
3. Use a VPN for Secure and Stable Connections
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the best ways to secure your online accounts and sometimes adds a little stability to the internet connection when you’re using a public Wi-Fi network or are in an area where networks are congested. Furthermore, some VPN providers have specific servers that are optimized for streaming or gaming, thereby reducing latency and improving speed.
Setting up a VPN on OnePlus Nord:
Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > VPN.
You will have to fill in the new VPN profile with suitable information given by your VPN service for you to have one.
Switch on the VPN to have a connection with it after configuring it.
4. Monitor Data Usage and Background Processes
Excess use of data and processes in the background would slow down the internet connection. The monitoring and control of these things would improve the overall network definition.
For monitoring data usage:
In Settings, go to Wi-Fi and Network > Data usage.
It shows what are the apps using most data, and restricts background data usage when needed.
For managing the background processes:
Settings > Battery > Battery optimization.
Apps are optimized to not consume unnecessary resources when running in the background.
5. Setting Network Mode for Better Compatibility
Depending on the location or network provider, some network modes are more efficient than others. For example, if you don’t have good 4G coverage in your area, 3G might be a better option for you.
Change the network mode by going to Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > SIM & Network > Preferred network type. Choose from 5G, 4G, 3G, or 2G, according to what you want and also the coverage available in your location.
6. Use Wi-Fi Calling in low coverage areas
If you’re in an area where cellular coverage is poor but have access to a strong Wi-Fi network, Wi-Fi Calling can help with voice calls coming in just that much clearer and improves network reliability.
To enable Wi-Fi Calling: Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > SIM & Network. Toggle the option to enable Wi-Fi Calling.
Carrier-Specific Considerations
Different carriers may have some unique requirements or further settings to be configured on supporting the optimal performance of your OnePlus Nord. Here are some carrier-specific considerations:
1. Verizon (USA)
VoLTE Settings: Customers of Verizon should enable VoLTE for HD voice calls and for data usage while calls are being made.
Settings -> Wi-Fi & Network -> SIM & Network -> VoLTE -> Turn On.
CDMA Settings: Verizon operates on a CDMA network. So, ensure your device is made to support the CDMA feature if you have old CDMA SIM cards.
2. AT&T (USA)
APN Settings: The prepaid plans or services of Visual Voicemail may need special APN settings from AT&T.
Contact AY&T customer care for checking extra APN configurations.
Wi-Fi Calling: In addition, Wi-Fi Calling needs the use of the carrier and device AT&T to support it. You’ll then have to update all software on your OnePlus Nord so it can support AT&T’s Wi-Fi Calling.
3. T-Mobile (United States)
5G Settings: T-Mobile is exclusively for 5G network coverage. If you are not connecting to 5G, check that your SIM and device settings support it.
Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > SIM & Network > Preferred Network Type and select 5G.
International Roaming: T-Mobile gives out the very nice feature of international data roaming for free on most of its plans, but some conditions may apply making it necessary for you to adjust your APN or roaming options when traveling.
4. Vodafone (UK)
APN Settings: For both data and MMS, make sure that your APN settings for Vodacom are correctly configured. Specific APN settings may be required on Vodafone’s network for advanced features, such as tethering or VoLTE.
Roaming Settings: Before roaming outside the country, ensure your device has been set to automatically connect to available networks, and check that the correct APN is selected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do I do when my mobile data fails to work even with correct APN settings?
If your mobile data still doesn’t work with correct APN settings:
Restart your OnePlus Nord to apply the settings.
Make sure that your mobile data is turned on and you’re within the network coverage.
Check that it is not on Airplane Mode.
Contact your operator to ensure that your data plan is active and that there are no outages in your area.
2. What could be the problem since I can neither send nor receive MMS?
When you cannot send or receive MMS:
Confirm that your APN settings include all three elements within your MMSC, MMS Proxy, and MMS Port fields.
Ensure that mobile data is activated for MMS, which needs a data connection.
Clear the cache of your messaging application to solve the problem or try with another messaging application to see if that works.
3. How can I reset my APN settings to default?
To do this, go to Settings > Wi-Fi & Network > SIM & Network > Access Point Names. Tap the three-dot menu icon at the top-right corner and select Reset to default.
This will set your APN to that providing by your carrier.
4. Is it possible to make a custom APN for tethering and all that?
Yes, it would be possible to create a custom APN only for tethering or some other requirement. You would have to specify the right APN Type (like “dun” for tethering) and check with your carrier for other necessary settings.
5. Will changing APN settings, then calls or SMS will still be ok?
APN settings basically affect mobile data and MMS services. The standard calls and SMS should not be affected at all. The only possible exception is if a particular carrier uses different APN settings for using VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling. If that’s the case, ensure those settings are properly configured since this will affect proper service provision.
Conclusion
It might take some effort in setting up and optimizing APN settings on OnePlus Nord, but it pays off with an enhanced experience on mobile connectivity if done properly. It is all about knowing APN well and how its settings changes work with the network and device you’ve got, whether it’s for data speed, MMS, or anything related to the advanced feature like VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling.
The hardware and software that this OnePlus Nord has in it is stronger less simple but very suitable for some basic users and technophiles to exploit and optimize mobile network settings. This review has talked more comprehensively about how you would avoid hassle over APNs and tweak your device connectivity for the best of experiences no matter the location or the carrier.
If, after trying these approaches, there are still problems, please do not hesitate to contact the OnePlus support team or your carrier’s customer care. They will usually offer customized advice or settings to help you fully enjoy the experience with OnePlus Nord.