What is an ICCID Number and Why is ICCID Important?
In order to join the global network, you need a name or identifier. That’s why we all receive a name and a social security number at birth. These identifiers help schools, employers, and government entities connect important information throughout our lives. ICCID numbers on SIM cards operate in a similar way but for machines and devices.
A SIM card connects devices to allow back-and-forth communication as well as connection to the cloud. An IoT SIM card is assigned identifiers to help business owners track the performance of their devices. These identifiers provide information that helps organizations identify and manage SIMs, subscribers, devices, and network connections. We break down the key components of an IoT SIM Card, the ICCID number significance, and types of IoT Sim Cards.
Key Components of an IoT SIM Card
An IoT SIM card is a rather simple idea that operates using a complex system of numbers. Understanding the various numbers and other key components will help build a broader knowledge of IoT SIM card functions.
Each IoT SIM card has a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) otherwise known as a wireless service provider. Certain SIM cards are able to connect to multiple MNOs. However, only one can be active at a time. Each MNO stores information on the ICCID code, the MSISDN, and the IMSI.
What Is the ICCID?
The ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is a unique number used to identify a SIM card or eSIM. An ICCID is associated with the SIM itself and contains information used to identify the card and its issuing network or region. The ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is a unique number used to identify a SIM card or eSIM. An ICCID is associated with the SIM itself and contains information used to identify the card and its issuing network or region. ICCIDs are used to manage and identify SIMs within cellular networks.
What Is the MSISDN?
The Mobile Station ISDN Number (MSISDN) is applicable for devices used to make voice calls and send SMS messages. The MSISDN is the phone number that shows up when the device makes contact with another device.
What Is the IMSI?
The International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) is part of the operator profile data for the SIM card. This number is used to identify the devices within the MNO. The IMSI shouldn’t be confused with an International Mobile Equipment Number (IMEI), which is linked to a device, not the mobile network. Usually the IMSI is about 15 digits long. This number includes the mobile country code (MCC), the mobile network code (MNC), and the line of service (MSIN).
How does ICCID relate to IMSI and IMEI?
Along with the ICCID, there are two other mobile network identifiers you should be familiar with: IMSI and IMEI. The ICCID identifies the SIM card while the IMSI identifies the specific subscriber, and the IMEI identifies the specific device.
How to Read and Decode an ICCID Number
An ICCID is typically made up of several components that identify the telecommunications industry, issuing region or country, network or issuer, individual SIM, and a final check digit. Understanding these components can help when identifying or managing SIM cards in an IoT deployment.
This code consists of groupings that represent various identifiers and codes, which makes each SIM card unique. This large code is broken down into the following four major segments.
| ICCID Component | What It Represents |
|---|---|
| Major Industry Identifier (MII) | Identifies the telecommunications industry. ICCIDs traditionally begin with 89 to indicate telecommunications. |
| Country/Region Code | Identifies the country or region associated with the SIM issuer. |
| Issuer/Network Identifier | Identifies the network or organization associated with the SIM. |
| Individual Account Number | Provides a unique identifier for the individual SIM. |
| Check Digit | A final digit used to validate the ICCID using the Luhn algorithm. |
How to find the ICCID:
Looking for the ICCID on a SIM card is typically the most basic way to find it. However, it might not always be the most convenient way to find the ICCID. The ICCID may be printed directly on a physical SIM card, while the IMSI is stored within the SIM and generally is not printed on the card.
Types of IoT SIM Cards
IoT SIM Cards have been manufactured to meet the evolving needs of IoT users. All sizes and types of companies are finding ways to take advantage of IoT services and SIM cards. There are three main times of IoT SIM cards currently used today: commercial, industrial, and embedded.
Commercial
This SIM card can be used in any device. Besides commercial applications, these SIMs are recommended for prototypes.
Industrial
This SIM’s sturdy construction is prepared to handle industrial environments. Compared to the commercial SIM, this handles higher temperatures and lasts longer.
Embedded (eSim)
The eSIM is newer SIM card technology that has the world excited. There are two different technologies that exist within the umbrella of the term eSIM. 1. The embedded aspect; devices can now include a built-in SIM card. 2. Ability to switch between different carriers on the same SIM. Before, you’d need to use a different SIM card for each carrier.
Get Connected
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Updated July 2026.