Fix network connection, signal, and roaming issues by choosing a network manually
Your Figabytes eSIM normally connects automatically to supported mobile networks in your destination country. However, there are situations where manually selecting a network can improve connectivity and resolve mobile data issues.
Manual network selection can help fix:
- No mobile data
- Weak or unstable signal
- Slow internet speeds
- Incorrect network branding
- Registration errors
- “No service” issues
This guide explains how to manually choose a mobile network on both iPhone and Android devices.
Why manual network selection may be needed
Sometimes your phone may connect to:
- A weaker roaming partner
- A congested network
- An unsupported network
- An unstable fallback connection
This can cause:
- Slow data speeds
- Failed internet connections
- Signal without internet access
- Incorrect carrier names appearing on screen
Choosing the correct network manually often resolves these problems immediately.
Before manually selecting a network
Before starting, make sure:
- Your Figabytes eSIM is installed
- The eSIM is turned on
- Data roaming is enabled
- You are located in a supported destination
- Mobile data is set to the Figabytes eSIM
You should also check the recommended network information included with your Figabytes plan.
How to manually select a network on iPhone
Step 1: Open mobile settings
- Open Settings
- Tap Mobile Data or Cellular
- Select your Figabytes eSIM
Step 2: Open network selection
- Tap Network Selection
- Turn Automatic OFF
Your iPhone will begin searching for available networks.
Step 3: Choose a network manually
After the list appears:
- Select the recommended network for your destination
- Wait for registration to complete
Step 4: Restart the device
After connecting:
- Restart your iPhone
- Or toggle Airplane Mode ON and OFF
Then test your internet connection.
How to manually select a network on Android
Menu names may vary depending on your device brand.
Step 1: Open mobile network settings
- Open Settings
- Go to:
- Network & Internet
- Or Connections
- Tap:
- SIMs
- Mobile Networks
- Or SIM Manager
Step 2: Open network operators
- Select your Figabytes eSIM
- Tap:
- Network Operators
- Or Choose Network Automatically
Step 3: Disable automatic selection
Turn OFF automatic network selection.
Your phone will scan for available networks.
Step 4: Select the recommended network
Choose the recommended roaming partner for your destination.
Step 5: Restart your device
After selecting the network:
- Restart the device
- Toggle Airplane Mode ON and OFF
- Test mobile data
What if the network name looks incorrect?
Sometimes your phone may display:
- A generic network label
- An unexpected carrier name
- A blank network name
- Different branding than expected
This is normal for roaming eSIM connections.
The displayed name depends on the roaming partner network your device connects to.
As long as mobile data works correctly, the eSIM is functioning properly.
Additional troubleshooting steps
If manual network selection does not solve the issue:
Restart the device
A restart often refreshes network registration.
Toggle Airplane Mode
- Turn Airplane Mode ON
- Wait 10 seconds
- Turn it OFF again
Check APN settings
Incorrect APN settings can block mobile data even when signal is available.
Disable VPN or Private DNS
VPNs and DNS filters may interfere with roaming connections.
Switch network mode
Try changing between:
- LTE / 4G
- 5G
- Automatic mode
Move to another area
Weak signal indoors or in crowded locations can affect registration.
Common connection issues manual selection can fix
Manual network selection often resolves:
- No signal
- Slow speeds
- Registration failed errors
- Incorrect roaming partner connection
- Unstable data connection
- Generic carrier branding
Important things to know
- Not all visible networks are supported
- Selecting unsupported networks may prevent connectivity
- Roaming must usually remain enabled
- Automatic selection can be turned back on later if needed
Need help choosing the correct network?
If your eSIM still cannot connect after manually selecting a network, visit Figabytes for additional troubleshooting and support assistance.