Switching from Vodafone to Iliad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you tired of Vodafone’s high prices or lackluster customer service? Are you looking for a more affordable and transparent mobile carrier? If so, switching to Iliad might be the right choice for you. Iliad, known for its simple plans, competitive pricing, and no hidden fees, has disrupted the Italian mobile market. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of switching from Vodafone to Iliad, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition. We will cover everything from choosing the right Iliad plan to activating your new SIM card.
Why Switch to Iliad?
Before diving into the steps, let’s briefly discuss why switching to Iliad might be beneficial for you:
* **Affordable Plans:** Iliad offers some of the most competitive mobile plans in Italy, often significantly cheaper than Vodafone’s offerings.
* **Transparent Pricing:** Iliad is known for its transparent pricing with no hidden fees or unexpected charges. What you see is what you pay.
* **No Data Throttling:** Unlike some providers, Iliad generally does not throttle data speeds, allowing you to enjoy your data plan to the fullest.
* **Simple Plans:** Iliad’s plans are straightforward and easy to understand, with no complicated terms or conditions.
* **Growing Network:** Iliad is constantly expanding its network coverage across Italy, improving its reliability and speed.
Before You Start: Important Considerations
Before you begin the switching process, consider the following:
* **Check Your Vodafone Contract:** Review your Vodafone contract to see if you are still under contract. If you are, switching before the contract ends may incur termination fees. Contact Vodafone customer service to inquire about any potential fees.
* **Unlock Your Phone (If Necessary):** Most modern phones are unlocked, but if you purchased your phone directly from Vodafone with a subsidized contract, it might be locked to their network. You’ll need to unlock it before using an Iliad SIM card. Contact Vodafone customer service to request an unlock code. Provide them with your IMEI number (dial *#06# on your phone to find it).
* **Decide if You Want to Keep Your Number (Portability):** You have the option to keep your existing Vodafone number when you switch to Iliad (known as number portability or *portabilità del numero*). This is usually the preferred option as it avoids the hassle of informing all your contacts of a new number. If you choose to keep your number, make sure you provide accurate information during the Iliad registration process, as any discrepancies can cause delays or failure of the porting process. If you don’t want to keep your number, you can request a new one from Iliad.
* **Gather Your Information:** You’ll need the following information handy when you sign up with Iliad:
* Your Vodafone mobile number.
* Your Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale).
* A valid ID document (Identity Card or Passport).
* Your bank account details (IBAN) if you choose automatic billing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Switching from Vodafone to Iliad
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you switch from Vodafone to Iliad:
**Step 1: Choose an Iliad Plan**
Visit the Iliad website (www.iliad.it) or go to an Iliad store (Iliad Store or Iliad Corner). Browse the available plans and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. Consider factors like data allowance, call minutes, and SMS messages. Iliad regularly updates its plans, so check for the latest offerings.
**Step 2: Sign Up for an Iliad Account**
There are several ways to sign up for an Iliad account:
* **Online:** This is the most convenient method. Go to the Iliad website and click on “Attiva Offerta” (Activate Offer) for your chosen plan. Follow the on-screen instructions to create an account and provide the required information, including your personal details, address, and payment information.
* **Iliad Store:** Visit an Iliad Store in person. A representative will assist you with the registration process.
* **Iliad Corner:** Iliad Corners are automated kiosks located in shopping malls and other public places. Follow the instructions on the kiosk screen to register and purchase a SIM card. These machines generally accept credit/debit cards.
* **Iliad Point:** These are authorized retailers (e.g., tobacconists, newsagents) that sell Iliad SIM cards. The retailer will assist you with the registration process.
**Step 3: Provide Your Vodafone Number and Portability Information (If Applicable)**
During the registration process, you will be asked whether you want to keep your Vodafone number. If you do, select the option to port your number (*portabilità*). You will need to provide your Vodafone mobile number and the ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) of your Vodafone SIM card. The ICCID is a 19- or 20-digit number printed on your Vodafone SIM card. It’s usually located on the back of the SIM card or on the plastic card that the SIM card came with. If you don’t have the physical SIM card, you can usually find the ICCID in your phone’s settings (check under “About Phone” or “SIM Card Status”). Ensure that you enter the correct Vodafone mobile number and ICCID to avoid any issues with the porting process. If you choose to get a new number, you will be assigned one during the registration process.
**Step 4: Verify Your Identity**
Iliad needs to verify your identity to comply with Italian regulations. You will need to upload a copy of a valid ID document, such as your Identity Card (*Carta d’Identità*) or Passport (*Passaporto*). Make sure the copy is clear and legible.
**Step 5: Choose a Payment Method**
Iliad offers several payment methods:
* **Credit/Debit Card:** This is the most common and convenient option. You will need to provide your credit/debit card details during the registration process. Iliad accepts major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard.
* **Bank Account (SDD):** You can set up automatic payments from your bank account (SDD – Sepa Direct Debit). You will need to provide your bank account details (IBAN).
* **Prepaid Recharge:** You can manually recharge your Iliad account using a credit/debit card, at an Iliad store or corner, or through authorized retailers. This option is available if you don’t want to set up automatic payments.
**Step 6: Receive Your Iliad SIM Card**
If you signed up online, your Iliad SIM card will be delivered to the address you provided during registration. Delivery typically takes a few business days. If you signed up at an Iliad Store, Corner, or Point, you will receive your SIM card immediately.
**Step 7: Activate Your Iliad SIM Card**
Once you receive your Iliad SIM card, you need to activate it. Activation is usually done online through the Iliad website. Log in to your Iliad account and follow the instructions to activate your SIM card. You will need to enter the SIM card number (printed on the SIM card) to complete the activation process. The activation process usually takes a few minutes.
**Step 8: Wait for Number Portability (If Applicable)**
If you requested number portability, you will need to wait for the porting process to complete. This usually takes 1-3 business days. During this time, your Vodafone SIM card will continue to work. Iliad will send you an SMS message to notify you when the porting process is complete and when to insert your Iliad SIM card. Keep your Vodafone SIM in your phone until you receive this notification. If you chose to get a new number from Iliad, your Iliad SIM card will be active immediately after activation.
**Step 9: Insert Your Iliad SIM Card**
Once you receive the SMS notification from Iliad that the porting process is complete (if applicable), turn off your phone and remove your Vodafone SIM card. Insert your Iliad SIM card into your phone. Turn your phone back on. If you requested number portability, your phone should now be using your old Vodafone number with the Iliad network.
**Step 10: Configure Your Phone’s APN Settings (If Necessary)**
In most cases, your phone will automatically configure the APN (Access Point Name) settings for the Iliad network. However, in some cases, you may need to manually configure these settings to access the internet. Here’s how to do it:
* **Android:**
1. Go to **Settings** > **Connections** (or **Network & Internet**) > **Mobile networks** > **Access Point Names**.
2. Tap the **Add** button (usually a plus sign or three dots).
3. Enter the following information:
* **Name:** Iliad
* **APN:** iliad
* **Proxy:** (Leave blank)
* **Port:** (Leave blank)
* **Username:** (Leave blank)
* **Password:** (Leave blank)
* **Server:** (Leave blank)
* **MMSC:** (Leave blank)
* **MMS proxy:** (Leave blank)
* **MMS port:** (Leave blank)
* **MCC:** 222
* **MNC:** 50
* **Authentication type:** PAP or CHAP (Try PAP first. If it doesn’t work, try CHAP.)
* **APN type:** default,supl
* **APN protocol:** IPv4/IPv6
* **APN roaming protocol:** IPv4/IPv6
* **Bearer:** Unspecified
4. Save the APN settings.
5. Select the newly created Iliad APN.
* **iOS (iPhone):**
1. Go to **Settings** > **Cellular** > **Cellular Data Options** > **Cellular Data Network**.
2. Enter the following information:
* **Cellular Data APN:** iliad
* **Username:** (Leave blank)
* **Password:** (Leave blank)
* **MMS APN:** (Leave blank)
* **Username:** (Leave blank)
* **Password:** (Leave blank)
* **MMSC:** (Leave blank)
* **MMS Proxy:** (Leave blank)
3. Restart your iPhone.
**Step 11: Test Your Connection**
Once you have inserted your Iliad SIM card and configured the APN settings (if necessary), test your connection by making a phone call, sending an SMS message, and browsing the internet. If everything works correctly, you have successfully switched from Vodafone to Iliad.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common issues that you might encounter during the switching process and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Number Portability Fails:**
* **Incorrect Information:** Double-check that you provided the correct Vodafone mobile number and ICCID during the Iliad registration process. Even a small error can cause the porting process to fail.
* **Vodafone Account Issues:** Ensure that your Vodafone account is active and in good standing. If your account is suspended or terminated, the porting process will fail.
* **Name Mismatch:** Make sure the name on your Vodafone account matches the name on your Iliad account.
* **Contact Customer Support:** If you have checked all of the above and the porting process still fails, contact both Vodafone and Iliad customer support for assistance.
* **No Internet Connection:**
* **APN Settings:** Ensure that you have correctly configured your phone’s APN settings as described in Step 10.
* **Data Roaming:** If you are outside of Italy, make sure that data roaming is enabled in your phone’s settings.
* **Check Data Balance:** Verify that you have sufficient data allowance in your Iliad plan.
* **Restart Your Phone:** Sometimes, simply restarting your phone can resolve connectivity issues.
* **Unable to Make Calls or Send SMS Messages:**
* **Check Signal Strength:** Ensure that you have a strong signal from the Iliad network.
* **Check Your Account Balance:** Verify that you have sufficient credit in your Iliad account to make calls and send SMS messages (if you are not on an unlimited plan).
* **SIM Card Issues:** Try removing and reinserting your Iliad SIM card. If the problem persists, contact Iliad customer support.
* **SIM Activation Issues:**
* **Incorrect SIM Number:** Double-check that you entered the correct SIM card number during the activation process.
* **Wait a Few Minutes:** Sometimes, the activation process can take a few minutes to complete. Wait a while and try again.
* **Contact Customer Support:** If you are still unable to activate your SIM card, contact Iliad customer support.
Contacting Iliad Customer Support
If you encounter any issues during the switching process, you can contact Iliad customer support through the following channels:
* **Phone:** Call 177 from your Iliad SIM card or another phone.
* **Website:** Visit the Iliad website (www.iliad.it) and check the FAQ section or use the online contact form.
* **Social Media:** Contact Iliad through their social media channels, such as Facebook and Twitter.
Conclusion
Switching from Vodafone to Iliad can be a smart move if you are looking for a more affordable and transparent mobile carrier. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition. Remember to carefully review your Vodafone contract, gather all the necessary information, and choose an Iliad plan that suits your needs. Good luck with your switch!