About eSIMs
Like a traditional SIM card, an eSIM stores the data your device needs to use the EE network. eSIM means an embedded SIM, but unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is built into your device.
With an eSim you can switch between different phone numbers. For example, one for work and one for personal use. It’s also secure, meaning no one can remove the eSIM if your device is lost or stolen.
Need to know
To get an EE eSIM on your Windows device, you must be a current EE Mobile customer with an EE ID and be able to add an additional line.
Your laptop or tablet will need to be running Windows 10 or 11, be cellular enabled, support eSIM and have a WiFi or data connection.
Check your device is eSIM compatible
To check your device is cellular enabled:
- Go to Settings.
- Select Network and Internet.
- Select Cellular.
- If you see the cellular option, your device supports mobile data.
Next, you will want to check your device is set to use eSIM.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Network and internet.
- Select Cellular.
- Select use this SIM for cellular data.
- Select the drop-down box and ensure eSIM or SIM2 is selected.
Need to know
To setup an eSIM on your Windows device, you will need a Wi-Fi or data connection.
Set up an EE eSIM on your Windows device
- to check your device is cellular enabled, select Get connected
- if you don’t see a message prompt, you can type 'mobile plans' into the search bar and launch the Mobile plans app
- select connect with eSIM
- select EE
- select Log in and login with your EE ID
- you’ll be presented with a selection of eSIM data plans
- select a plan and confirm the order
- once the order is confirmed your eSIM will start to download. You'll see a message asking if you'd like to downloaded it now. Once everything is ready select Yes
- if you don’t see the message go to Cellular settings
- select Cellular
- select the eSIM profile you want to use and your device will connect to the EE network
Manage your eSIM profiles
Need to know
Many mobile networks offer eSIM profiles for international travel. You can switch to a local network by adding a new eSIM profile.
Switch between profiles
You can store multiple eSIM profiles on your device, but you can only use one at a time. Switching between profiles is easy through the Cellular settings.
You can switch between eSIM profiles if you have multiple data plans.
- select Settings
- select Network & Internet
- select Cellular
- select Manage eSIM profiles
- select the profile you want to use
Remove an eSIM Profile
If you no longer need a profile:
- go to Manage eSIM profiles
- select the profile you want to remove
- select Delete
- Confirm
Troubleshoot eSIM issues
Need to know
If you delete your eSIM, this does not cancel your plan. However, if this is an accident you will need to call 150 from an EE phone or 0800 956 6000 from an alternative line and order a replacement eSIM.
eSIM not working after setup
- Ensure you have an active data plan
- Restart your device and recheck the cellular settings
- Verify that you are in an area with good network coverage
- Make sure your device software is up to date: Settings > Windows update > Check for Updates
- Contact EE to ensure the eSIM is activated on our end
No cellular option in settings
- Verify that your device is cellular-enabled. If not, you may need an external eSIM-compatible modem or dongle
- Make sure your Windows 11 version is updated to support eSIM functionality
Lost or stolen device with an active eSIM
If your device with an active eSIM is lost or stolen, it’s important to contact us and report it immediately. For more information visit lost or stolen mobile phone.
Need more help?
If you’re still having trouble with an eSIM on your Windows laptop or tablet, you can get more help: