How Does an eSIM Work? The Magic of Digital Connectivity
An eSIM works like a regular SIM card, connecting your device to a mobile network for calls, texts, and data. The activation is fully digital, allowing users to set up a cellular plan by scanning a QR code or using a service provider’s app—no new SIM card needed. Since the information on an eSIM is re-writable, switching carriers or plans is simple and can be done right from your device’s settings.
eSIM vs. Physical SIM: What's the Difference?
eSIMs and physical SIMs serve the same purpose, but eSIMs offer greater convenience and flexibility.
Physical SIM Cards: The Traditional Choice
- Physical SIM cards are removable chips that store subscriber details.
- They must be manually inserted into a device.
- They are associated with a single carrier.
eSIM: The Modern Solution
- An eSIM is embedded directly in the device’s hardware.
- It allows for remote and digital activation.
- It can hold multiple carrier profiles, making it simple to switch between carriers.
The Advantages of Using an eSIM
There are a number of key eSIM benefits for new eSIM-compatible phones or mobile devices.
Ultimate Convenience and Flexibility
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- Switch between carriers and plans without needing a new physical SIM.
- Include multiple phone numbers on one device—ideal for separating personal and business lines.
Perfect for Travelers
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- eSIMs eliminate the need to buy local physical SIM cards when traveling internationally.
- Purchase and activate a data plan for a destination before even leaving home. This helps by avoiding high roaming charges.
Enhanced Security
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- Since an eSIM cannot be physically removed, it makes it more difficult for thieves to steal and use your phone number if your device is lost or stolen.
- eSIMs reduce the risk of SIM-swapping scams, as they require carrier authentication for activation or changes, making it much harder for hackers to impersonate users or fraudulently transfer your phone number.
Space-Saving and Innovative Device Design
- Removing the physical SIM card tray frees up space for manufacturers to add other features or create smaller devices like smartwatches.
What Devices Use eSIMs?
eSIM-compatible devices are becoming more common, showing that this technology is here to stay. Most modern smartphones from major brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google now support eSIM, along with other devices like tablets (iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab), smartwatches (Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch), and the latest laptops.
The NETGEAR Angle: Unlocking the Full Potential of eSIM with Mobile Hotspots
Before the eSIM technology, when you traveled to a new country, you needed to buy a physical SIM from a store to connect with your cell phone and avoid paying crazy roaming fees. For cost-effective mobile hotspot use, you would need to remove the physical SIM card from the phone and add it to the mobile hotspot adapter. Switching the SIM card back and forth between phones and mobile hotspots was inconvenient, time-consuming, and less secure.
eSIMs technology eliminates the need for traditional physical SIM cards, offering a fully digital, flexible way to switch carriers and manage data plans. NETGEAR Hotspots with eSim complement this innovation by providing seamless eSIM integration, allowing users to enjoy enhanced connectivity across multiple devices with ease.
Traveling often requires access to multiple networks, and today’s smartphones with multi-eSIM support simplify managing multiple carrier profiles. NETGEAR mobile hotspots enhance this convenience by providing secure, reliable on-the-go connectivity that can be shared across all your devices—delivering flexibility, effortless management, and peace of mind wherever you travel.

Stay Connected Globally with NETGEAR eSIM Marketplace
NETGEAR now offers an eSIM Marketplace for Nighthawk M7 customers, making it easier than ever to stay connected on the go. With flexible data plans, transparent pricing, and global coverage in 140+ countries, you can choose the plan that fits your needs, whether you’re traveling for business, adventure, or everyday connectivity.
Powered by access to 250+ global networks, NETGEAR eSIM automatically connects your M7 device to the best available local network for fast, reliable performance no matter where your journey takes you. Simple. Flexible. Global. NETGEAR eSIM keeps you connected, so you can focus on what matters most.
Why Use a NETGEAR Mobile Hotspot with eSIM Technology?
Imagine stepping off the plane when traveling regionally or in a new country and instantly accessing local data plans without the stress of high roaming charges. With Embedded eSIM technology and NETGEAR, staying connected has never been easier. Advantages include:
Seamless Global Connectivity: Travelers can use travel routers that support eSIM to get internet access across different countries without swapping SIM cards.
Cost Savings on the Go: Using a mobile hotspot with an eSIM allows users to choose from various local top up and unlimited data plans, avoiding expensive international roaming fees.
Connect All Your Devices: A NETGEAR mobile hotspot can share a single eSIM data plan across multiple devices like laptops, tablets, and phones.
Easy Management: Managing eSIM profiles and data plans can be done through the The NETGEAR App.

What are the Benefits of using a NETGEAR Mobile Hotspot Rather Then a Phone's eSIM hotspot?
While using your phone as a hotspot is convenient for quick connections, a dedicated NETGEAR mobile hotspot offers several key advantages for power users, families, and professionals:
Preserves Phone Battery: Tethering multiple devices to your phone rapidly drains its battery. A mobile hotspot has its own dedicated battery, allowing your phone to stay fully charged for important calls, navigation, and essential tasks. A NETGEAR Hotspot can also be used a powerbank for your smartphone.
Superior Performance and Range: NETGEAR Mobile Hotspots are purpose-built for networking. They often feature more powerful antennas, providing a stronger, more reliable WiFi signal over a greater distance compared to a smartphone.
Connect More Devices: NETGEAR Mobile Hotspot compatibility means they can handle multiple simultaneous connections without significant performance drop. You can confidently connect laptops, tablets, smartwatches, and other gadgets for your whole family or team.
Enhanced Security Features: NETGEAR Mobile Hotspots come with advanced security options, including guest network capabilities, password protection, and access control, creating a more secure private network for your devices than a standard phone hotspot.
Uninterrupted Connectivity: When you receive a phone call, your phone’s hotspot connection can be interrupted. A dedicated mobile hotspot ensures your other connected devices remain online without disruption.
Note: While some older NETGEAR models may not have direct eSIM support, newer portable WiFi Hotspot routers are embracing travel eSIM technology. You can also use a programmable physical SIM card that can store eSIM profiles to use in devices like the Nighthawk M6550.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using a NETGEAR mobile hotspot instead of just my phone's eSIM hotspot?
A dedicated NETGEAR Mobile Hotspot provides a faster, more secure connection for multiple devices and preserves your phone’s battery life for other essential tasks.
Is an eSIM more secure than a physical SIM?
Yes, eSIMs are generally considered more secure because they can’t be physically removed and stolen from your device. This makes it harder for unauthorized users to access your phone number.
How do I activate an eSIM?
Activation is a digital process. Your carrier will typically provide a QR code that you scan with your phone’s camera. Alternatively, you might activate it directly through your carrier’s mobile app. The entire process is usually completed in just a few minutes without needing to visit a store.