How to Unlock Your MiFi to Work With All SIMs (Complete Guide)

Many people buy a MiFi device only to realise later that it works with one network alone. This usually happens when the MiFi is locked to a specific mobile provider. When a MiFi is locked, you cannot use SIM cards from other networks unless you unlock it.

If you have been stuck with a single network and want more freedom, this guide will show you how to unlock your MiFi so it can work with any SIM card. This includes popular MiFi brands such as Huawei, Swift, and Smile. The steps are simple, beginner-friendly, and require only a few tools.

In this article, you will learn what MiFi unlocking means, the tools you need, how the entire unlocking process works, and common issues you may face. By the end, your MiFi should be ready to work with any network you choose.

What Does Unlocking a MiFi Mean?

A MiFi is a small wireless device that allows you to connect phones, laptops, tablets, and other gadgets to the internet. Some MiFi devices are “locked.” This simply means the manufacturer or network provider limits the device to one network, such as MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile, Swift, or Smile.

Unlocking a MiFi removes this restriction. After unlocking, you can insert any SIM card from any network, and the device will connect normally. Unlocking gives you freedom to enjoy better internet prices, stronger network signals, and more flexibility.

Why Unlocking Your MiFi Is Helpful

Unlocking a MiFi is useful for many reasons:

1. Freedom to Choose Any Network

You are not stuck with one network’s data plans or a poor signal. You can switch between networks anytime for faster browsing or cheaper data bundles.

2. Cheaper Internet Options

Some networks offer cheaper monthly or weekly data plans. Once your MiFi is unlocked, you can pick the best option at any time.

3. Stronger Network Coverage

If your current provider has a weak signal in your area, inserting another SIM might give you better coverage.

4. More Flexibility When Travelling

If you travel between cities or countries, you can easily use another SIM that works best in that location.

5. Better Device Value

An unlocked MiFi is more valuable if you plan to resell or give it away.

Things You Need Before Unlocking Your MiFi

To unlock your MiFi successfully, you must prepare a few tools. Make sure everything on this list is ready:

1. A Huawei MiFi Modem

Most unlocking tools work best with Huawei MiFi devices. If you are using Swift or Smile MiFi, the steps are still similar, and the same method often works depending on the model.

2. DC-Unlocker or Any Huawei Unlock Code Generator

You will need a code generator to create an unlock code based on your MiFi’s IMEI number. There are free versions that allow you to generate the first unlock code at no cost.

3. A Working Internet Connection

Your phone or computer must be connected to the internet. This is required for the unlock code generator to create your code.

4. A Computer or Smartphone

You can complete the process with either a PC or a mobile phone, as long as you can access the MiFi dashboard through your browser.

5. The IMEI Number of Your MiFi

This number is usually printed on a label inside the device or on the back of the MiFi. You will use this IMEI number to generate the unlock code.

Before You Start: Important Notes

• Make sure the battery of your MiFi is fully charged.
• Keep the IMEI number and unlock code saved somewhere safe.
• Do not enter the wrong unlock code more than 10 times. Too many wrong attempts may permanently lock the device.
• If possible, back up your settings.

How to Unlock Your MiFi to Work with All SIMs

Follow the steps carefully. Everything you need to do is explained in simple language.

Step 1: Power Off Your MiFi

Switch off your Huawei MiFi or any other brand you are using. This ensures the device resets properly when you insert a new SIM.

Step 2: Find and Write Down the IMEI Number

Look at the body of the MiFi. You will see a sticker containing important details such as:

• IMEI
• default username
• default password
• SSID (network name)

Write down the IMEI number because you will need it to generate your unlock code.

If you cannot find the IMEI sticker, you can check:

• Inside the battery compartment
• On the device box
• On the MiFi dashboard under Device Information

Step 3: Insert a SIM from a Different Network

Open the MiFi and insert a SIM card from another network. For example:

• If your MiFi is locked to MTN, insert an Airtel or Glo SIM
• If your MiFi is locked to Smile, insert a standard 4G SIM
• If you are using a Huawei MiFi, insert any available SIM that is not the original network

After inserting the SIM, power the MiFi back on.

Step 4: Connect the MiFi to Your Phone or PC

Turn on the Wi-Fi of your phone or laptop. Search for the MiFi network name and connect.
If you are asked for login details, use:

• Username: admin
• Password: admin

Unless you have changed the default password before.

Step 5: Open the MiFi Dashboard in Your Browser

Open your browser and type:

http://192.168.8.1

This will take you to the MiFi dashboard.

Since you inserted a SIM that does not match the locked network, the dashboard will show an error such as:

• Invalid SIM
• SIM Locked
• Enter the unlock code

A pop-up box will appear asking you to enter your unlock code.

Do not enter anything yet. Leave the page open.

Step 6: Generate Your Unlock Code Using the IMEI Number

This is the most important part.

Open your unlock code generator.
Enter your IMEI number in the calculator and generate the unlock code.

Most tools will give you two codes:

• Flash Code
• Unlock Code

What you need here is the Unlock Code.

Copy it or write it down.

Step 7: Enter the Unlock Code in the MiFi Dashboard

Return to the MiFi dashboard page where the pop-up is waiting for your code.

Paste or type the unlock code carefully. Make sure you do not make any mistakes, as incorrect attempts may limit your chances.

Click OK or Apply.

Your MiFi should now accept the new SIM.

Step 8: Configure Additional Settings if Needed

In some devices, the process may ask you to go to advanced settings to complete the unlocking.

To do this:

1. Open the MiFi dashboard
2. Go to Advanced Settings
3. Select SIM Settings or Device Unlock
4. Enter the Unlock Code again
5. Save and apply changes

Your MiFi will restart and become fully unlocked.

What to Do After Unlocking Your MiFi

Once your MiFi accepts the new SIM, follow these steps to make sure everything works smoothly.

1. Set the Correct APN for the New Network

Go to:

Settings → Mobile Network → APN

Select the new network’s APN. For example:

• MTN NG – gprs.mtnnigeria.net
• Airtel NG – ng.airtel.com
• Glo NG – gloflat
• 9mobile – 9mobile

Click Save.

2. Restart the MiFi

Restart your device so it can fully detect the new network.

3. Check Signal Strength

Look at the network bar on the MiFi dashboard. Make sure it shows a good signal.

4. Test Your Internet Connection

Open a webpage or run a speed test to confirm browsing is working.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem 1: The MiFi Refuses to Accept the Unlock Code

You may be entering the wrong code, or the device has limited attempts left.

Solution: Confirm the IMEI is correct. Generate the unlock code again.

Problem 2: No Network after Unlocking

This may be due to wrong APN settings.

Solution: Set the correct APN for the SIM.

Problem 3: SIM Not Detected

The SIM may be inserted incorrectly.

Solution: Remove and reinsert the SIM properly.

Problem 4: Dashboard Not Opening

This happens when the IP address has been changed.

Solution: Try these alternatives:

http://192.168.1.1

http://192.168.0.1

Should You Do It Yourself or Use an Expert?

Unlocking a MiFi is simple, but some devices can be stubborn.
If you follow all the steps and still cannot unlock it, you may need help from a trained technician.

UK-based users can contact Leicester IT and Software Support for help. They have experienced engineers who handle MiFi unlocking, computer repairs, business IT support, and software services.

Some Popular Mifi Pictures

Final Thoughts

Unlocking your MiFi gives you the freedom to use any SIM card you want. The steps are simple:

1. Power off the MiFi
2. Get the IMEI
3. Insert another SIM
4. Connect to the dashboard
5. Generate the unlock code
6. Enter the code
7. Save and restart

After unlocking, you can enjoy cheaper data, better network coverage, and more flexibility.

If this guide helped you, share it with anyone who may need it. It can save someone the stress of being stuck with a single network