What is an APN and how does it work?

APN (or Access Point Name) is an identifier which allows a user to establish a connection between a local network and the public internet. The local network uses the APN to generate an IP address, define the service type which is required and assign the appropriate security settings.

APNs can also have custom names, which makes them easier to enter and remember. This is especially helpful in cellular IoT applications, where manufacturers have to manually set their APNs in the device settings.

SIM for Things APN support

BICS have three APNs available via default bicsapn, america.bics & asia.bics, which allow access to public internet via local breakout in different regions Europe, North America & Asia respectively.

SIM for Things does provide support for custom private APNs, if you need to use a custom APN, please contact your BICS account manager.