How to Switch Networks Without Losing Your Phone Number (Porting Explained)

Maybe your current network has poor coverage where you live, or another network is offering better data prices, but you don't want the hassle of giving your number to everyone all over again. The good news is you don't have to. Number porting lets you switch networks while keeping the exact same phone number. Here's how it works and how to actually do it.

What Is Porting?

Porting is the process of moving your phone number from one network to another without changing the digits. So if you're on MTN and want to move to Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, porting lets you keep your existing number while your calls, texts, and data now run on the new network instead.

Things to Know Before You Port

Your SIM Will Change

Even though your number stays the same, you'll need a new SIM card from the network you're porting to. The old SIM from your current network becomes useless for calls and data once the port is complete.

There's Usually a Small Fee

Porting typically comes with a small charge, which varies depending on the network you're moving to. This is usually paid at the point of getting your new SIM.

Your Number Must Be Active

You generally can't port a number that's been inactive or barred for too long. Make sure your line is active and not owing any outstanding subscription tied to your current network before starting the process.

It's Not Instant

Porting doesn't happen immediately. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the networks involved and how smoothly the request is processed.

Step by Step: How to Port Your Number

1. Check eligibility. Make sure your number isn't tied to a contract, isn't barred, and has been active for the minimum required period, which is usually at least a few days to weeks on the current network.
2. Get a new SIM. Visit an outlet of the network you want to switch to and request a porting SIM, or a regular SIM depending on what they offer for porting.
3. Submit a porting request. This is usually done via a text message code, an app, or directly at the outlet, where you'll provide your number and some form of identification.
4. Wait for confirmation. You'll typically get a text message confirming your porting request has been received, along with an estimated time for completion.
5. Insert the new SIM once notified. Once porting is complete, insert the new SIM into your phone, and your number should now be active on the new network.
6. Test your line. Make a call, send a text, and try browsing to confirm everything works properly on the new network before discarding your old SIM.

What Happens to Things Linked to Your Old Network?

Anything tied specifically to your old network, like a wallet balance, loyalty points, or airtime, generally doesn't transfer over during porting, so it's worth using up whatever you can before switching. Services linked to your phone number itself, like bank accounts, social media, or messaging apps, should continue working fine since the number stays the same.

Common Issues and What to Do

• Porting request rejected: This usually happens if the number is still within a lock period, has outstanding debt, or details submitted don't match your registered information. Confirm your correct registration details with your current network before retrying.
• Taking longer than expected: If it's gone well past the estimated time, reach out to the customer care of the network you're porting to, since they handle the request on your behalf.
• Number stops working entirely during the switch: This is normal for a short window while the port completes. If it stays down for too long, contact customer support immediately.

Is Porting Worth It?

If your main concern is holding onto your number while getting better service elsewhere, porting is absolutely worth it. It saves you the stress of informing everyone about a new number, updating it across banking apps and social media, and losing contacts who might not get the memo about the switch.

Just plan for the small fee, the short downtime while it processes, and make sure you're not leaving unused airtime or wallet balance behind on your old network before you make the move.