Activate your eSIM manually with an SM-DP+ address

When setting up an eSIM, you might come across the term "SM-DP+ address." This crucial piece of information is often required for manual activation when automatic processes aren't available. But what exactly is an SM-DP+ address, and how does it fit into the eSIM activation process?

In this post, we’ll break down the role of SM-DP+ addresses and guide you through the steps to manually activate your eSIM, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go. Whether you're troubleshooting or need an alternative setup method, this guide will walk you through it.

What is an SM-DP+ address, and why is it essential?

eSIM providers use remote servers called SM-DP+ servers to manage eSIMs. The SM-DP+ server functions as a "middleman," storing a repository of eSIMs that are ready to be assigned to customers—much like a warehouse holding inventory prepared for immediate shipment. The server ensures the security of eSIMs and that only authorized devices gain access.

The SM-DP+ address is a type of domain name that uniquely identifies the SM-DP+ server. The SM-DP+ address allows devices to connect to the server and receive details about the eSIM. Without the SM-DP+ address, your device can’t locate and connect to the server to retrieve the required information to activate eSIM profiles.

The SM-DP+ address can’t be clicked or opened directly (i.e., it’s not a URL to a webpage. Check out the FAQs at the end of this article for a detailed explanation of the difference between SM-DP+ addresses and URLs). Instead, the SM-DP+ address must be entered into your device’s eSIM settings.

When a customer purchases an eSIM, the eSIM provider gives an activation code to the customer. The activation code contains the SM-DP+ address to locate and connect to the SM-DP+ server, and a unique code (called the matching ID) that identifies the specific eSIM on the server allocated to the customer.

2 methods to activate an eSIM: QR code vs. manual activation

Most eSIM providers offer two installation methods: providing the activation code in the form of a QR code and manual entry of the activation code. Here’s how they work:

1. Automatic activation with a QR code

By scanning a QR code from your eSIM provider, your device automatically connects to the SM-DP+ server, which sends the necessary information for eSIM activation (the QR code contains activation code, which in turn contains the SM-DP+ address!) . This seamless setup transfers all needed data, completing activation in a few steps.

When to use it

This option is typically used for most smartphones and tablets. It’s a quick solution where you scan a QR code provided by your eSIM provider. This method is ideal for devices with cameras.

Requirements

You’ll need a QR code from your eSIM provider and an eSIM-compatible device with a working camera.

2. Manual activation

The activation code contains both the SM-DP+ address and matching ID. Manually entering the SM-DP+ address and matching ID into your device (via AT commands or through a GUI, depending on the device) connects it to the SM-DP+ server. This connection provides the eSIM profile for download and activation, allowing immediate connectivity without the QR code.

When to use it

Use manual activation when QR code scanning isn’t feasible, particularly for IoT devices like modems or routers that don’t have cameras. It’s also suitable if you’re unable to display or print the QR code.

Requirements

You’ll need the activation code (SM-DP+ address and matching ID), and an eSIM-compatible device. Your eSIM provider can give you the activation code containing the SM-DP+ address and matching ID.

Why manual eSIM activation is essential for IoT, routers, and other devices

For devices like modems, routers, and specialized IoT devices, QR code scanning is impractical. Here, the SM-DP+ address is vital, offering a way to activate eSIMs even without camera functionality.

By manually entering the SM-DP+ address and activation code, users can enable secure, high-speed eSIM connectivity for various devices, from office routers to industrial sensors.

Step-by-step guide to manually activate an eSIM

The manual installation process can vary by device type. Here’s how to set it up on different devices:

Manual eSIM setup on mobile phones

For iOS devices

1. Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
2. Tap Add eSIM and select Enter Details Manually.
3. Input the SM-DP+ address and activation code.
4. Complete the setup by following the on-screen prompts.

For Android devices

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs.
2. Choose Add eSIM or tap the + sign.
3. Manually enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code as prompted.
4. Follow the instructions to activate the eSIM.

Manual eSIM setup on modems and routers

Because modems lack screens and cameras, their eSIM activation process is different and may involve entering commands or using a graphical interface.

For modems using AT Commands (e.g. Quectel modem)

Log into the modem’s interface and enter the required AT commands for eSIM activation, including the SM-DP+ address and activation code.

For GUI-based Routers (e.g. Peplink router)

Open the router’s GUI, go to the cellular settings, and manually enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code to initiate the connection.

These steps vary by modem and manufacturer, so it’s best to consult the specific setup guide provided by your modem’s manufacturer.

Making the most of SM-DP+ for eSIM activation

The SM-DP+ address is a critical component of eSIM technology, acting as the gateway that connects your device securely to the telecom network. Whether using automatic QR code activation or the flexibility of manual entry, understanding the SM-DP+ address empowers you to activate eSIMs confidently across a range of devices.

The Telnyx eSIM platform allows businesses to activate and manage eSIMs effortlessly via our intuitive portal or APIs, integrating seamlessly into any app or environment. Customers can activate eSIMs automatically via QR code or manually with an activation code. Create and customize eSIM profiles and data packages to fit your unique business requirements. Whether you need single-country or multi-region plans, the platform provides full control to adjust data offerings, offering both flexibility for your customers and control for your team.

FAQs

What is an SM-DP+ server?

SM-DP stands for Subscription Manager Data Preparation. The SM-DP+ server is a remote server that manages eSIMs and secure routing for eSIM profiles, facilitating secure activation and updates. It enables communication between the device and carrier network. SM-DP+ comprises SM-DP which prepares the eSIM profile with your carrier’s information and credentials, and SM-SR (Subscription Manager for Secure Routing) which handles secure data routing to your device.

What is an SM-DP+ address?

The SM-DP+ address is a unique code that identifies an SM-DP+ server. The address is required to communicate with the server to set up an eSIM. The SM-DP+ address is part of the activation code.

What is an activation code?

An activation code is a unique code that in turn comprises two unique codes; the SM-DP+ address and the matching ID (activation code = SM-DP+ address + matching ID). When a customer purchases an eSIM, the eSIM provider gives an activation code to the customer. The activation code contains everything the customer needs to retrieve and activate the eSIM:

1. The SM-DP+ address to locate and connect to the SM-DP+ server
2. The matching ID to identify the specific eSIM on the server that has been allocated to the customer

The activation code is usually provided to the customer in the form of a QR code or can be retrieved by a call to an API.

What is a matching ID?

The matching ID is a unique code that identifies an eSIM on an SM-DP+ server. The matching ID is part of the activation code.

What is the role of the SM-DP+ address in eSIM activation?

During activation, the SM-DP+ address is used by the device to locate and connect to the SM-DP+ server that manages eSIM profiles. The device requests the necessary data from the server, and once verified, the server authorizes the profile download, enabling cellular connectivity.

Where do I find the SM-DP+ address?

The SM-DP+ address is provided by your eSIM vendor, typically as part of the activation code when you purchase an eSIM. With Telnyx eSIMS, you can retrieve the activation code (which includes SM-DP+ address and matching ID) through a simple call to our eSIM API.

Is an SM-DP+ address a URL?

An SM-DP+ address is not a URL like those used in browsers to navigate to a specific webpage. A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) contains the protocol (http or https) and full address for accessing resources on the internet. In contrast, an SM-DP+ address is defined as an FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name) by the GSMA. While not clickable like a URL, an FQDN specifies the exact location of a server on the internet, allowing eSIM-enabled devices to access the SM-DP+ server via an SM-DP+ address.

How do I activate an eSIM?

Most providers offer two methods:

1. Automatic activation (via QR Code): Scan a QR code, and your device receives the details from the SM-DP+ server automatically.
2. Manual activation (requires SM-DP+ address and matching ID): Enter the activation code (SM-DP+ address and matching ID) manually into your device if QR scanning isn’t possible.

Why would I need to activate my eSIM manually?

Manual activation is useful when:

1. Devices don’t have a camera (e.g. IoT devices, routers).
2. You cannot display or print the QR code to scan with the device.

Manual activation is a great fallback if you need flexibility in device setup.

What information is needed for manual activation?

For manual activation, you’ll need the SM-DP+ address and matching ID (both are usually contained in the activation code provided by your eSIM vendor).

How can I activate an eSIM manually on IoT devices like modems and routers?

Modems and routers lack QR code scanning capabilities and may use command interfaces (AT commands) or GUIs for eSIM setup. In either case, you will input the activation code (comprising the SM-DP+ address and matching ID) based on device-specific steps. Refer to the modem’s guide for accurate instructions.

What should I do if the SM-DP+ address or activation code doesn’t work?

Contact your eSIM provider, as they can verify and reissue these codes if needed to ensure a smooth activation process.

Can I change the SM-DP+ address on my device?

No, the SM-DP+ address is tied to your eSIM profile and cannot be modified or reused with another carrier. For a different eSIM plan, you’ll need a new activation code from your provider.

Can I use the SM-DP+ address with another provider?

No, the SM-DP+ address is unique to each carrier’s eSIM profile. To switch providers, you’ll need a new activation code from the new provider.