London Speed Test (Q4 2025): LHR vs City vs Tube Tunnels

29 Oct 2025

If you’re landing at Heathrow, dashing into the City, and spending hours on the Elizabeth line or deep Tube tunnels, here’s what London connectivity actually looks like in late 2025. We ran a multi-day london mobile speed test campaign across Heathrow (Terminals 2–5), the Square Mile and Canary Wharf, and key Underground corridors (Elizabeth line plus Jubilee, Victoria and Central), using dual 5G SA-capable devices on all major UK networks. We logged download/upload throughput, latency, jitter, dropouts and handover behaviour, and benchmarked against hotel Wi‑Fi in Zone 1 as a practical baseline for video calls and cloud work.

This report is traveller-first: expected speeds by place, what affects your connection, how 5G Standalone (SA) vs Non‑Standalone (NSA) behaves on the move, and simple steps to get reliable service underground. We’re publishing the full open CSV so you can slice by operator, line, station or hour of day—see the Data and reproducibility section for how to get it via our Partner Hub. If you’re planning a multi-country trip, pick the right eSIM up front via Destinations or region bundles like Esim Western Europe.

How we tested

Period: 7–11 October 2025 (Q4 snapshot)
Devices: iPhone 15 Pro and Pixel 8 Pro (both 5G SA/NSA capable)
Profiles: UK eSIM via Simology (multi-network testing), plus roaming checks on an EU plan (see Esim Western Europe)
Apps: Speedtest by Ookla, nPerf, and Fast.com for cross-validation
Samples: 1,524 tests; 40+ hours on trains and in stations; 12 hotel Wi‑Fi baselines (Zone 1)
Locations:
Heathrow T2/T3/T5 (landside and airside)
City of London (Bank, Moorgate, Liverpool Street), Canary Wharf
Elizabeth line (Paddington–Canary Wharf–Custom House), Jubilee, Victoria, Central
Metrics captured: median and p90 down/up Mbps, latency ms, jitter ms, packet loss %, disconnect events, 4G/5G SA/NSA state, handovers

How to replicate our approach (practical checklist): 1. Use a 5G SA-capable phone and ensure 5G SA is toggled on (where available). 2. Install two speed test apps to cross-check results. 3. Run 30–60 second tests stationary, and short bursts (10–15 seconds) in tunnels to reduce motion bias. 4. Log exact location and line/segment; note carriage position (front/middle/rear can matter near equipment rooms). 5. Capture background: time, crowding level, and whether Wi‑Fi or Wi‑Fi calling is on. 6. Repeat at different times (rush vs off-peak) to surface congestion.

Key findings at a glance

Heathrow (T2/T3/T5): Consistent 5G with high mid-band capacity; median download 180–280 Mbps airside, 120–200 Mbps landside; uplink 20–45 Mbps; latency typically 19–32 ms on SA.
City street level (Square Mile): Dense small-cell 5G delivers strong medians (220–350 Mbps) and low jitter; uplink 25–55 Mbps; lunchtime congestion is noticeable but rarely crippling.
Canary Wharf: Among the highest medians observed (260–400 Mbps) and very stable latency; great for quick syncs and uploads.
Elizabeth line: Best-in-class tunnels; median 150–250 Mbps with fewer dropouts and faster handovers; uplink 18–40 Mbps; latency 22–35 ms where SA is active.
Deep Tube (Jubilee/Victoria/Central): Coverage is now excellent across many tunnels, but performance is more variable than Elizabeth line; medians 60–140 Mbps; occasional 10–20 second dead zones in older sections and curves.
Hotel Wi‑Fi baseline (Zone 1 business hotels): Median 55–120 Mbps down, 15–35 Mbps up; latency 9–25 ms; predictable once you’re on Ethernet or a 5 GHz SSID; still beaten by good 5G for large uploads.

Heathrow (LHR): Terminals 2–5

What we measured - T5 airside (A gates): Median 240 Mbps down / 38 Mbps up; latency 21 ms; near-universal 5G with strong mid-band. - T3 arrivals hall: 150/28 Mbps median; occasional NSA fallbacks at peak arrivals create 10–15% higher latency. - T2 security area: 210/42 Mbps median; excellent for last-minute downloads; SA present for multiple operators. - Inter-terminal transit: Medians dip to 90–140 Mbps with brief handover stutters.

5G SA vs NSA - SA observed consistently in T2/T5; mixed SA/NSA in T3 landside. - SA improves uplink stability and cuts jitter by ~20–30% when crowds surge.

Traveller tips at Heathrow - Pro tip: After landing, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to force a clean attach; you’ll often jump from NSA to SA with a better uplink. - If your video upload stalls, move closer to windows or gate piers where small cells improve line-of-sight. - Avoid running multiple tests right at passport control—RF is noisy and crowded; results aren’t representative.

City core: Square Mile and Canary Wharf

Square Mile (Bank, Moorgate, Liverpool Street) - Street-level medians 220–320 Mbps; p90s often 500–650 Mbps with carrier aggregation. - Latency 18–28 ms on SA; 25–40 ms on NSA in busy pockets. - Building canyons can cause short fades; stepping 5–10 metres to a junction often restores full 5G.

Canary Wharf - Docklands is a standout: medians 260–400 Mbps; uplink 30–60 Mbps. - Lakeside promenades and concourses have excellent small-cell density; great for large OneDrive/Google Drive syncs.

Remote work practicality - 1080p Teams/Zoom is trivial on street-level 5G; 4K streaming is fine where medians exceed ~80 Mbps. - If your phone flips between SA and NSA during a call, expect a brief jitter spike; enabling Wi‑Fi calling on stable hotel or office Wi‑Fi can help.

Underground: Elizabeth line and deep tunnels

Elizabeth line (Paddington–Canary Wharf–Custom House) - Most reliable tunnel experience in our london mobile speed test: medians 150–250 Mbps, uplink 18–40 Mbps, latency 22–35 ms with SA prevalent. - Handover performance is notably smooth between stations; brief 1–3 second dips entering curves. - Platforms are even faster (200–350 Mbps) with strong beamforming and minimal congestion outside rush hour.

Jubilee, Victoria, Central (deep Tube) - Tunnels now widely covered but performance varies more than the Elizabeth line. - Jubilee: 100–180 Mbps medians, good uplink; occasional 5–8 second dropouts around tight curves. - Victoria: 80–140 Mbps; more NSA fallbacks at peak times cause higher jitter. - Central: 60–120 Mbps; some legacy sections show 10–20 second dead spots between stations.

How to keep calls stable underground - Use audio-only or 720p video in deep tunnels; save 1080p for the Elizabeth line or platforms. - Turn on Wi‑Fi calling; in many stations, the dedicated Wi‑Fi plus small-cell backhaul is steadier than constrained 5G uplink during crush loads. - If your device lets you, prefer 4G/5G “Auto” rather than “5G On” forced—forced 5G can cause sticky handovers underground.

Hotel Wi‑Fi baseline versus mobile

Zone 1 business hotels (12 properties) tested mid-evening:
Wi‑Fi medians 55–120 Mbps down, 15–35 Mbps up; latency 9–25 ms on 5 GHz; packet loss near zero once on Ethernet.
Peak-time streaming is predictable; large cloud backups (photos/videos) are often faster on 5G uplink if your room’s Wi‑Fi is congested.
Takeaway: For live calls and remote desktop, hotel Wi‑Fi (wired or strong 5 GHz) is safest. For bulk uploads, step outside on strong 5G if you need speed.

5G SA vs NSA: what travellers need to know

5G SA (Standalone) attaches directly to a 5G core. Benefits:
Lower latency (often 5–10 ms better than NSA).
More consistent uplink when networks are busy.
Cleaner handovers in modern tunnels (not universal yet).
5G NSA (Non‑Standalone) rides a 4G core. It’s widely available and still very fast, but jitter and latency are less predictable under load.
Roaming reality: Some roaming profiles still prefer NSA in parts of London even where SA exists. We saw SA for multiple operators in Heathrow and the City; NSA dominated on certain deep Tube segments during peaks.
Tip: If your plan supports VoLTE/VoNR, keep both enabled. Disable any “Low Data Mode” features while navigating or tethering laptops.

For multi-country travellers, a regional profile like Esim Western Europe reduces SIM swaps. If you’re arriving from the US and continuing on, compare with Esim North America or a country plan such as Esim United States. Heading to Paris, Rome or Barcelona next? See Esim France, Esim Italy and Esim Spain.

Data and reproducibility

Open data: We publish the raw measurements (Q4 2025 London Speed Tests) as an open CSV, with columns:
timestamp, device, operator, SA/NSA state, location (station/segment), GPS accuracy, down_mbps, up_mbps, latency_ms, jitter_ms, packet_loss_pct, dropout_flag
Access: Download the open CSV and documentation via our Partner Hub. Business users can request automated extracts and alerts through For Business.
Methods: Each location/segment includes at least 5 samples per operator. We discard outliers from failed attaches, plus first-second warm-ups in tunnels.
Attribution: Cite “Simology Connectivity Lab, London Q4 2025” with a link back to this report when using charts derived from the CSV.

Practical tips: make London connectivity work for you

Quick setup before you land - Install two test apps and download offline maps. - Add your eSIM profile in advance. For simple UK and Schengen coverage, use Esim Western Europe. - Enable VoLTE/VoNR and Wi‑Fi calling.

At Heathrow - After switching off Airplane Mode, wait 30–60 seconds for a 5G SA attach, then start navigation or ride-hailing. - If you need to upload large files, do it airside near gates where mid-band 5G is strongest.

On the Elizabeth line and Tube - Expect the Elizabeth line to handle 1080p video calls; switch to audio-first on older deep Tube tunnels. - Stand near carriage ends at stations if you must upload—platform small cells are often strongest there.

At the hotel - Prefer the 5 GHz SSID or Ethernet for calls; run one quick test to confirm stability. - Use your 5G uplink for big cloud backups if hotel Wi‑Fi drags below 10–15 Mbps up.

FAQ

What’s the fastest area from this london mobile speed test?
Canary Wharf led medians (260–400 Mbps), with the Elizabeth line platforms close behind. Heathrow T5 airside also performed very well.
Can I rely on mobile data in Tube tunnels now?
Largely yes. Elizabeth line is excellent end-to-end; Jubilee/Victoria/Central are broadly covered with the odd 10–20 second gap. Plan for brief dips and keep calls audio-first in older tunnels.
Does 5G SA work when roaming?
Often, but not everywhere. We saw SA on multiple operators in Heathrow and the City. Some roaming profiles still prefer NSA in parts of the network. It’s automatic—you can’t force SA if the profile or cell doesn’t allow it.
Is hotel Wi‑Fi better than 5G for video calls?
Usually, yes—if you’re on a clean 5 GHz SSID or Ethernet. Latency and jitter are steadier. For big file uploads, good 5G uplink can be faster than congested hotel Wi‑Fi.
What eSIM should I pick for a UK + Europe itinerary?
A regional option like Esim Western Europe keeps things simple across borders. If your trip includes North America legs, compare with Esim North America or specific country plans like Esim United States.
Where can I get the raw data?
The open CSV and methods guide are available on our Partner Hub. Teams needing regular updates should visit For Business.

Next step

Planning London plus onward travel? Choose a seamless plan for the UK and beyond via Destinations, then download the full dataset from our Partner Hub to plan your workdays with confidence.

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Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

Is eSIM Secure? Myths, Risks & How to Stay Safe

Travellers love eSIM for instant setup, no queues and easy switching. But many still ask a simple question: is eSIM safe? In short: yes—when you buy from a reputable provider and follow a few basic security steps, eSIM is as safe as (and often safer than) a traditional plastic SIM. It uses GSMA-standard, carrier-grade security, with profiles delivered over encrypted channels and protected by your phone’s hardware.That said, no connectivity method is magically immune to risk. The biggest day‑to‑day threats to travellers are not eSIM itself but account takeover, dodgy QR codes, and—by far the most common—unsafe public Wi‑Fi. This guide cuts through the noise, explains how eSIM security really works, and gives you practical checklists to stay protected on the road. If you’re planning multi‑country travel, explore our regional options like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America, or browse all Destinations.eSIM security, in plain EnglishAn eSIM is a secure chip inside your phone that stores your mobile plan as a digital profile. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM, you download a profile from a secure server (known as an SM-DP+). Your phone and the server verify each other using certificates, then exchange encrypted data to install the profile.Key points that matter for safety: - No physical card to steal, lose, or swap. - Profiles are bound to your device’s secure hardware. - Provisioning uses mutual authentication and encryption based on GSMA standards used by mobile operators worldwide. - You control activation, deactivation, and deletion on your device settings.Is eSIM safe? The short answerYes. eSIMs use operator‑grade security and reduce several risks associated with plastic SIMs.Why eSIM can be safer than a physical SIM: - Harder to steal or swap: There’s no tiny card to remove. Many eSIM transfers require device unlock and/or account verification. - Encrypted delivery: Profiles are provisioned over secure channels; the QR code is just a pointer, not the profile itself. - Faster control if lost: You can remotely erase your phone (which removes eSIM profiles) and suspend service via your carrier promptly.Where the real risks are: - Social engineering (SIM swap via your carrier account, not via “hacking” the eSIM itself). - Malicious QR codes or fake eSIM vendors. - Insecure public Wi‑Fi, which remains a far bigger everyday threat than mobile data.Common myths, debunked“eSIMs are easy to hack”Reality: There’s no public evidence of widespread eSIM profile “hacking” on modern devices. Attacks we hear about are usually account takeovers (convincing a carrier to port your number) or device theft. Keep your carrier/Apple/Google accounts locked down with strong, unique passwords and multi‑factor authentication (MFA).“Scanning a QR code is unsafe”The QR code typically contains the address of the secure server (SM-DP+) and an activation code. The sensitive bits still travel through an encrypted, authenticated session between your phone and the operator. The risk isn’t the QR format—it’s scanning codes from untrusted sources. Only use codes from your provider’s website/app or official email.“eSIM can be cloned”Cloning traditional SIMs required physical access and exploits. eSIM profiles are bound to device hardware and provisioned with mutual authentication, making cloning impractical for opportunistic attackers. Your bigger risk is someone taking over your carrier account, not copying your eSIM.“eSIM drains battery or tracks me more”No. eSIM is simply the way your device stores carrier credentials. Network behaviour, not eSIM itself, affects battery and privacy. As with any mobile plan, your operator sees the usual network metadata.“Public Wi‑Fi is fine if there’s a password”A café password does not equal end‑to‑end security. Open or shared‑password Wi‑Fi can be spoofed (“evil twin”), intercepted, or used to inject malicious captive portals. Mobile data via eSIM avoids most of these pitfalls.The real risks (and how to lower them)Account takeover (SIM swap)Risk: An attacker convinces your carrier to move your number to their device.Reduce it:Add a carrier account PIN and enable MFA.Use unique passwords stored in a password manager.Be wary of phishing that targets your email, Apple ID, Google account, or banking.Fake eSIM sellers and malicious profilesRisk: Phishing sites selling bogus “eSIMs,” or QR codes that lead you to install unknown profiles.Reduce it:Buy from reputable providers and official marketplaces.Confirm the web domain and payment gateway before purchase.Avoid Telegram/WhatsApp “resellers” without verifiable credentials.QR code interception or tamperingRisk: Using public PCs or shared screens to display codes; others scan your code.Reduce it:Access codes privately on your own device.Never share activation codes or order emails.Lost or stolen phoneRisk: Thieves may use your data/number if the phone remains unlocked.Reduce it:Set a strong device passcode and enable biometric unlock.Turn on Find My (iOS) / Find My Device (Android).Remote‑lock/erase immediately; contact your carrier to suspend service.Public Wi‑Fi risksRisk: Data interception, malicious hotspots, credential theft.Reduce it:Prefer mobile data via eSIM for banking, booking, and email.If Wi‑Fi is unavoidable, use a trusted VPN and disable auto‑join for open networks.Pro tip: When you arrive, enable “Allow Mobile Data Switching” (iOS) or equivalent dual‑SIM settings carefully, so your primary line isn’t used for roaming by mistake.A traveller’s security checklistBefore you flyBuy your eSIM from a trusted provider. Explore country packs like Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy or Esim Spain, or regional bundles such as Esim Western Europe and Esim North America. You can compare all options under Destinations.Secure your accounts: - Set a carrier account PIN and enable MFA. - Turn on MFA for email, Apple ID/Google, and banking.Update your phone to the latest OS.Set a strong device passcode; enable biometrics.Prepare backups (iCloud/Google) and enable Find My/Find My Device.When installing your eSIMUse a trusted network (mobile data or your home Wi‑Fi).Scan the QR code from your provider only; avoid screenshots in group chats.Confirm the Data Roaming toggle for the correct line to avoid bill shock.Keep your primary number as “Calls & SMS” only (if you need it) and route data through your travel eSIM.On the roadPrefer eSIM mobile data over public Wi‑Fi for sensitive tasks.If you must use Wi‑Fi:Verify the network name with staff; beware of lookalikes.Use a VPN; avoid logging into critical accounts on captive portals.Turn off auto‑join for open networks.Monitor usage and plan validity in your device settings.If your phone is lost/stolen: remote‑lock and erase, then contact your provider to suspend the line.When you head homeDelete unused travel eSIM profiles in Settings.Review your accounts and change any passwords used on shared networks.Keep your provider receipts and emails for future trips.Pro tip: Dual‑SIM setups are ideal. Keep your home number for calls/SMS (data off), and run data on your local eSIM for cheaper, safer connectivity.eSIM vs public Wi‑Fi: which is safer?For day‑to‑day travel, mobile data via eSIM is generally safer than public Wi‑Fi: - Air interface encryption: 4G/5G encrypt traffic between your phone and the tower. While telecom‑grade threats exist, opportunistic interception on mobile networks is far less common than Wi‑Fi sniffing. - Fewer “evil twin” attacks: It’s trivial to mimic “Free Airport Wi‑Fi”; it’s not trivial to mimic a mobile network your phone will trust. - Less captive portal risk: Wi‑Fi portals can inject scripts or trick you into entering credentials. Mobile data doesn’t have this layer.When to consider Wi‑Fi: - Large downloads or video calls where you trust the network (e.g., hotel room with unique password, enterprise WPA2‑Enterprise). Even then, a VPN adds protection.Bottom line: For most travellers wondering “is eSIM safe?”, the bigger question is “is this Wi‑Fi safe?”. If in doubt, stick to eSIM data.For business travellers and teamsMobile security is a team sport: - Standardise on eSIM data for travel devices to reduce Wi‑Fi risk. - Use MDM/EMM to enforce passcodes, remote‑wipe and VPN. - Require MFA on all corporate accounts and set carrier account PINs for employees. - Centralise purchasing for predictable costs and vetted vendors. See Simology For Business. - Agencies, TMCs, and resellers can streamline secure eSIM distribution via our Partner Hub.Where to buy securelyChoose reputable providers with transparent plans, clear activation steps and responsive support: - Country eSIMs: Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain. - Regional bundles: Esim Western Europe, Esim North America. - Explore all Destinations to match your route and budget.Pro tip: Install the eSIM before you fly so you’re online the moment you land—no airport Wi‑Fi needed.FAQQ: Is eSIM safer than a physical SIM? A: In many ways, yes. There’s no card to steal, profiles are tied to device hardware, and provisioning uses encrypted, authenticated channels. The major risk remains account takeover, not the eSIM tech itself.Q: Can someone hack my eSIM by scanning my QR code? A: Not if you keep it private. The QR code points your phone to a secure server; the actual profile is delivered over an encrypted, mutually authenticated session. Treat the code like a password—don’t share or display it publicly.Q: What if my phone is lost or stolen while travelling? A: Immediately use Find My/Find My Device to lock and erase the phone, which removes the eSIM profile. Then contact your provider to suspend or transfer the line. A strong device passcode and biometrics limit misuse.Q: Is public Wi‑Fi safe if I use HTTPS? A: HTTPS helps, but Wi‑Fi still carries risks: malicious hotspots, DNS tampering, captive portal tricks, and misconfigured apps. For sensitive tasks, mobile data via eSIM is typically safer. If Wi‑Fi is unavoidable, use a trusted VPN.Q: Can I use eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time? A: Yes. Most modern phones support dual‑SIM (one physical + one eSIM, or dual eSIM). You can set calls/SMS on one line and data on the other—ideal for keeping your home number active while using a local data plan.Q: Does eSIM affect battery life or privacy? A: Not inherently. eSIM is just how your plan is stored. Battery life depends on network conditions and usage; privacy is governed by your device settings and operator policies, similar to a physical SIM.Next step: Plan your trip with the right regional or country eSIM—start with our full list of Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

Partner Onboarding Checklist: Branding, Legal, Sandbox, and Go‑Live

Launching an eSIM partnership should be fast, predictable, and traveller‑first. This partner onboarding checklist (telecom‑grade, yet plain English) gives you a week‑by‑week plan from signature to soft launch. You’ll see who owns each task, what “done” looks like, and how to keep travellers front‑and‑centre. Whether you’re a travel brand, OTA, telco, MVNO, or fintech adding connectivity, use this to align teams across branding, legal, sandbox testing, and go‑live. Expect a four‑to‑six week run‑way depending on your integration scope and catalogue size. We also include acceptance criteria and pro tips drawn from real launches, plus a downloadable PDF version of the checklist inside our Partner Hub. If you need help selecting launch markets, browse our Destinations catalogue and top sellers like Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Spain, Esim Italy, Esim Western Europe, and Esim North America.Who this checklist is forTravel brands and OTAs adding ancillary connectivity revenueTelcos/MVNOs white‑labelling travel eSIMFintechs, banks and loyalty programmes bundling roamingWorkplace and events platforms providing temporary connectivitySystems integrators building on behalf of the aboveIf you’re scoping this project, share this article with Commercial, Legal, Product/Engineering, Brand/Marketing, Finance, Support Ops, and Data teams on day one.Week‑by‑week onboarding planEach week includes owners and acceptance criteria. Use the downloadable PDF from the Partner Hub as your live tracker.Week 0 (Pre‑flight): Decide scope and prepareOwners: Commercial, Product, BrandKey tasks: - Define your launch catalogue (countries/regions, data sizes, validity). Consider a phased start with hero SKUs for Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain, and Esim North America or Esim Western Europe. - Choose integration: Hosted checkout, API, or both (for web vs app). - Nominate an internal project owner and a weekly stand‑up cadence. - Request access to the Partner Hub and sandbox credentials. - Gather brand assets: logo files (SVG/PNG), colour palette, tone‑of‑voice guide.Acceptance criteria: - One‑page scope confirming catalogue, integration path, timelines, and success metrics (e.g., time‑to‑activation < 60s; NPS ≥ 60). - Partner Hub access confirmed for relevant team members.Pro tip: - Traveller‑first pricing wins. Anchor plans around common trip lengths (5–7, 10, 15, 30 days) and popular volumes (3–5 GB starter, 10–20 GB standard).Week 1: Contracts and complianceOwners: Legal, Commercial, Finance, InfoSecKey tasks: - Execute MSA and service schedules; confirm territory restrictions and brand use. - Complete KYC/KYB and tax forms (as applicable). - Sign DPA and confirm data processing roles. Define breach notification pathways. - Share security posture: data retention, logging, access controls. - Set commercial terms: revenue share, currency, billing cycle, payment method.Acceptance criteria: - Countersigned agreements; purchase order (if required). - DPA and security questionnaire completed and approved. - Billing profile configured; test invoice generated and validated.Pro tip: - Keep privacy notices simple. Tell customers what data is needed to deliver eSIM, how long you keep it, and how to get support. Link to your policy at checkout.Week 2: Branding and catalogue buildOwners: Brand/Marketing, Product, Content, CXKey tasks: - Approve co‑branding and logo placement. Define naming conventions (e.g., “Simology eSIM – United States 5 GB / 30 days”). - Write concise product copy that answers traveller questions: coverage, speeds, hotspot, top‑up, activation steps, refund policy for unactivated eSIMs. - Build your product catalogue in sandbox: SKUs, prices, currencies, taxes, promo codes. - Draft support content: device compatibility, dual‑SIM setup, and step‑by‑step install guides. - Map cross‑links to coverage pages like Destinations and country packs such as Esim United States or Esim Western Europe.Acceptance criteria: - Copy and imagery approved; SKU list frozen for UAT. - Checkout and product pages meet brand guidelines and accessibility standards (WCAG AA). - Internal CX playbooks drafted and searchable.Pro tip: - Publish pre‑travel advice: “Install before you fly, switch on abroad.” It cuts first‑day roaming stress and inbound support.Week 3: Sandbox integration and testingOwners: Engineering, QA, ProductKey tasks (API or hosted checkout): - Generate sandbox API keys; set IP allow‑list and webhook endpoints. - Implement core flows: create order, deliver eSIM (SM‑DP+ activation code), resend QR/email, top‑up, refund/cancel (if unused), and status webhooks. - Implement device checks to display “eSIM‑compatible only.” Offer guidance for iOS/Android. - Build error handling and retries for transient network timeouts. - Instrument analytics: funnel steps, activation events, and support deflection.Test cases to run: - Create and fulfil orders for hero SKUs (e.g., US 5 GB, Western Europe 10 GB). - Delivery methods: QR email, deep link, and manual code. - Activation: install profile, line toggling, data roaming on/off, APN checks. - Edge cases: duplicate orders, expired links, email typos, payment fails, refund of unactivated eSIM. - Latency thresholds: order to code < 3s; webhook delivery < 5s (p95). - Observability: logs contain correlation IDs; PII masked.Acceptance criteria: - UAT pass report with screenshots, logs, and p95 timings meeting thresholds. - No P1/P2 defects open; alerting in place for failures > 1% in any step. - Support can reissue codes/QRs from console without engineering help.Pro tip: - Test on both platforms and multiple OEMs. iOS and Android handle eSIM prompts differently; document the exact button text customers will see.Week 4: Support, operations, and reportingOwners: Support Ops, CX, Finance, DataKey tasks: - Define SLAs: first response, resolution, refund of unactivated eSIMs. - Build macros for top queries: “Does my phone support eSIM?”, “How do I install?”, “No data after landing.” - Train support on device settings, dual‑SIM behaviour, and roaming toggles. - Configure dashboards: sales, activations, failure rates, refund rate, CSAT/NPS. - Finance: reconcile test invoices; confirm tax handling; set dispute process. - Incident management: on‑call rota, severity matrix, comms templates.Acceptance criteria: - Knowledge base live; macros tested end‑to‑end. - SLA adherence tracked; weekly ops review scheduled. - Revenue, activation, and refund reporting validated against sandbox data.Pro tip: - Aim to resolve “no data” tickets in under five minutes by training agents to check: (1) eSIM line set as primary for mobile data, (2) data roaming ON, (3) device restarted after landing.Week 5: Go‑live and hypercareOwners: Project Lead, Engineering, Marketing, Support OpsKey tasks: - Switch to production keys; repeat smoke tests on a single low‑risk SKU. - Final price check, tax, and currency confirmation. - Roll out tracking pixels/SDKs with consent. - Update support/KM links to production. - Soft launch to 5–10% of traffic or private cohort. - Monitor dashboards and error budgets; hold daily stand‑ups during week 1. - Plan promo for top routes using links to Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Spain, and Esim Western Europe.Acceptance criteria: - First 100 production orders with ≥ 98% successful activation. - Refund rate for unactivated eSIMs ≤ 1% in week 1. - No unresolved P1/P2 issues for 72 hours.Pro tip: - Keep hypercare short but intense: a focused, cross‑functional channel (Eng, CX, Data) with on‑call coverage across time zones where you market.Roles and responsibilities (RACI‑lite)Commercial: scope, pricing, revenue targets, relationship managementLegal/Compliance: MSA, DPA, KYC/KYB, data governanceProduct/Engineering: integration, sandbox, observability, reliabilityBrand/Marketing: naming, copy, assets, campaign planSupport Ops/CX: SLAs, playbooks, tooling, trainingFinance: billing, tax, reconciliation, disputesData/Analytics: dashboards, KPIs, experimentation frameworkAcceptance test pack: what “ready” meansUse this cut‑down checklist before go‑live: - Catalogue: all SKUs priced, taxed, translated (if applicable), and visible - Delivery: QR and manual code arrive within 60 seconds; deep link opens correctly - Install: profile installs on recent iOS and Android; APN pre‑configured - Activation: data attaches abroad within 60 seconds of landing - Controls: pause/resume data line; hotspot works (if plan permits) - Error handling: friendly guidance for incompatible devices and failed payments - Refunds: unactivated eSIM refund path works in < 2 minutes - Analytics: funnel steps tracked; correlation IDs propagate from order to activation - Security: webhook signatures verified; PII masked in logs; access restricted - Support: agents can find a customer, reissue QR, and send the correct install guideCatalogue tips: start focused, grow fastStart with a small, high‑demand set (US, EU, UK). Use bundles like Esim North America and Esim Western Europe for multi‑country trips.Mirror trip reality: weekend break (3–5 GB/7 days), city‑hopping (10 GB/15 days), sabbatical (20–30 GB/30 days+).Localise copy where it increases trust; keep tech terms consistent across markets.Use the Destinations pages to educate travellers on coverage and device support.Governance and cadenceWeekly stand‑up during build, daily stand‑up during hypercareA single owner for scope, risk, and timelinesClear “no‑go” criteria (e.g., activation success < 95%, webhook failure > 2%)Monthly post‑launch review: funnel, NPS, refunds, catalogue updatesFrequently asked questions1) How long does the Simology partner onboarding take? Most partners go live in 4–6 weeks. Hosted checkout is fastest; full API plus apps and custom catalogue leans towards six weeks.2) Do we need developers to launch? Not strictly. You can launch with hosted checkout and brand configuration. For deeper integration, our APIs and sandbox are documented in the Partner Hub.3) Which destinations should we launch first? Pick high‑volume routes for your customers. Common winners are Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Spain, Esim Italy, and regional bundles like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America. Browse full coverage on Destinations.4) How do we test eSIM without travelling? Use sandbox orders to simulate fulfilment and activation. For production smoke tests, install and activate before travel, then confirm network attach abroad on day one. Document device‑specific steps for iOS and Android.5) What branding controls do we have? You control naming, copy, and presentation within agreed guidelines. Co‑branding ensures consistency and trust for travellers. Assets and examples are available in the Partner Hub.6) What about data protection and refunds? We provide a DPA and secure processing. You remain the merchant of record to your customers and should offer clear refund terms for unactivated eSIMs. Avoid storing activation codes in clear text; mask PII in logs.Download the checklistA printable, week‑by‑week PDF with tasks, owners, and acceptance criteria is available inside the Partner Hub. Share it with your project team and use it as your live go‑live tracker.Next step: Explore Simology’s B2B options and get access to the Partner Hub via For Business.

31 Oct 2025