search

mcphail / linux_huawei_unlocker

A utility to remove the SIM lock on Huawei USB modems
GNU General Public License v2.0
107 stars 51 forks source link

readme

Huawei Modem Unlocker

Copyright (C) 2012 Neil McPhail neil@themcphails.uk Portions Copyright (C) 2010 dogbert dogber1@gmail.com

This utility is now deprecated

I cannot maintain this application and do not have the skills to convert it to python3. Developers with an interest in this utility are encouraged to fork the repository. I would be happy to pass on the baton of maintenance to anyone who can demonstrate commitment to modernising the code.

Thank you for your interest in this software.

Licence: GNU GPL version 2

Version: 0.4

Requirements: Linux Python pySerial

Usage: ./unlocker.py (as root if necessary)

Warranty: none!

Huawei wireless broadband modems are well supported in Linux. When bought from a mobile carrier they are often locked to that carrier's network. This restricts your freedom to choose your own supplier and SIM.

Unlocking these modems is simple but it has become the domain of malign and unscrupulous members of the underground warez scene. This program aims to simplify the process for Linux users.

Method:

  1. Insert the "foreign" SIM into your modem
  2. Insert the modem into a spare USB port. Do not attempt to connect.
  3. Run "./unlocker.py" (you may need to run this as root)
  4. Accept the warning by typing "YES"
  5. Confirm you wish to proceed with the unlocking procedure
    • there are only 10 attempts before the modem is locked for ever
  6. Let me know whether it was a success or failure!

Troubleshooting: Make sure python-2 and pySerial are installed (e.g. sudo apt-get install python-serial)

The Windows "Dashboard" software is untouched. Some carrier-modified
versions of this software prevent unlocked modems connecting to foreign
networks. You may need to update the Dashboard software to an unbranded
version. This is of no concern to Linux users and this software does
not help with that process.

Early reports suggest that some modems cannot be unlocked by this
program. When I get hold of one of these devices I will work on it.

E220 devices will not work. I don not think they will ever work with
this script.

Devices beginning "E3" are unlikely to work at this point. I hope to
support these in a future version. If you have such a device and decide
to try this script please give me feedback on the link below.

Bugs: Please raise issues at https://github.com/mcphail/linux_huawei_unlocker