APN access explained
An Access Point Name (APN) allows the device’s network to connect to the internet. With the APN settings in place, your device establishes a connection to its carrier’s gateway. You can only make use of Afrihost AirMobile data if your APN is set for AirMobile on your device.
Our AirMobile APN is what determines that you are using Afrihost AirMobile Data. Any device using an Afrihost SIM card (for example, our Mi-Fi routers) must be set to the Afrihost APN to use our data. If you are using an Afrihost SIM in another mobile device (such as an iPad), you will need to set the device to use our APN.
Please read our Afrihost APN settings Help Centre article for more information.
Other Networks
If you are on any other mobile network, you can easily port your number to Afrihost AirMobile.
Want to move from another mobile network to Afrihost Mobile? Read our Porting to AirMobile article.
FAQs
Why does Afrihost use two APNs?
Afrihost utilises two different APNs to accommodate the distinct services offered through AirMobile and Legacy Air Mobile (MTN). AirMobile operates as a separate virtual network, and thus, it has its own APN.
AirMobile users will have no access to MTN services beyond Afrihost offerings. The ‘ws.air.mvno’ APN is tailored to the features and functionalities of AirMobile.
On the other hand, our existing Legacy Air Mobile (MTN) clients continue using the 'afrihost' APN. This allows them to keep using MTN prepaid SIM cards
What is the difference between AirMobile and Legacy Air Mobile (MTN)?
AirMobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) provided via MTN infrastructure. It operates as a virtual network on top of the existing MTN infrastructure, offering mobile services under its own brand. Legacy Air Mobile (MTN) refers to the previous mobile data offering that utilised MTN SIM cards and networks.
Can I sign up for AirMobile using my MTN SIM?
No, you cannot sign up for AirMobile using your MTN SIM card. The AirMobile network requires its own SIM cards for registration and usage, while Legacy Air Mobile (MTN) still uses MTN SIM cards.
Can I access the AirMobile APN using my Legacy Air Mobile (MTN) SIM card?
No, AirMobile and Legacy Air Mobile (MTN) use different APNs.
Once I’ve signed up for AirMobile, how long will it take for me to access my data?
It may take up to 72 hours for your SIM to be provisioned, but we will notify you by SMS or in your ClientZone once the process is complete.
Is it necessary to manually set up the APN for AirMobile?
No, it depends on the device you are using. Some devices can be configured automatically once the AirMobile SIM is inserted in the device. However, some devices require manual configuration. In such cases, you will receive an SMS advising you that you need to manually configure the APN on your device.
No problem, we have an APN settings guide for you.