Is It Safe to Change APN Settings?

If you’re keenly interested in knowing and experimenting with new APN settings and how it impacts the factors of the internet such as download-upload speed, signal strength, etc.

Here I’m going to experiment with APN by changing it. I’ll also answer the main topic of this blog: is it safe to change APN settings?

Without APN settings, your device won’t be able to connect to the internet or access mobile data, leaving you with a device that’s as useful as a brick. If you can’t live without the internet (let’s be honest, who can?), APN settings are essential.

But it’s not just about accessing the internet – APN settings can also affect your device’s speed, signal strength, and connection quality. That’s why many people customize their APN settings to optimize their mobile data usage and improve their internet experience.

Is it Safe to Change APN settings?

gif of Is It Safe to Change APN Settings overlay text with background

APNs are widely dependent on the configuration you set in them; various factors are included in APNs. These factors are:

Changing APN settings is entirely safe if all the set values are correct in APN. If APNs are configured correctly, they can increase internet speed and connectivity and solve all network errors.

Otherwise, users would encounter issues, such as network error, no single, no upload, and download speed. A user can easily switch between APN settings anytime or even reset APN settings if things go wrong.

My Personal Experiment

my personal experiment graphic

Here’s my personal experiment: Now, I will switch my current Airtel APN settings with a different one from backdroid.com.

Changing APN settings can be safe if done correctly. However, it is important to note that changing APN settings can also cause problems with your device’s connectivity. If you are uncomfortable changing APN settings, contacting your carrier for assistance is best.

Here are some of the potential risks of changing APN settings:

  • You may lose your cellular connectivity.
  • You may not be able to receive or send text messages or make or receive phone calls.
  • You may be exposed to security risks.

If you decide to change your APN settings, do so carefully and only from a trusted source. You should also back up your device’s data before making any changes.

Here are some tips for changing APN settings safely:

  • Only change APN settings from a trusted source.
  • Back up your device’s data before making any changes.
  • Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
  • If you have any problems, contact your carrier for assistance.

Testing Default APN

default apn settings selected

Currently, my default APN is by Airtel’s default internet settings, and now I’m switching it.

So my current internet speed is:

  • Mbps Download: 133.3
  • Mbps Upload: 16.7
  • Latency: 24 ms
  • Highest speed: 150 Mbps
default apn settings speed test

Testing Third-Party APN

testing apn settings by backdroid

This test has been performed using Google’s own speed test tool from the search itself.

Now I have switched to Airtel APN provided by backdroid, and here are the results:

  • Mbps Download: 137.4 Mbps
  • Mbps Upload: 16.4
  • Latency: 56 ms
  • Highest speed: 175.5
third-party apn settings speed test

Results: Which is Best for you?

The APN you were using before provided you with a download speed of 133.3 Mbps, an upload speed of 16.7 Mbps, and a latency of 24 ms. The highest speed you could achieve was 150 Mbps. Here are some pros and cons of this APN:

Pros:

  • Low latency: The latency of 24 ms is relatively low, meaning there is less of a delay in the time it takes for data to be sent and received.
  • Good download speed: The download speed of 133.3 Mbps is decent and should be sufficient for most everyday internet usage.
  • Relatively high maximum speed: The maximum speed of 150 Mbps is relatively high and should allow for smooth video streaming, online gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities.
highest download speed after changing apn

Cons:

  • Lower upload speed: The upload speed of 16.7 Mbps is relatively low, which could result in slower upload times for tasks such as uploading large files or streaming live video.
  • Limited settings and features: This APN may offer fewer advanced settings or features than other APNs.

Now, let’s talk about the APN provided by backdroid, which gave you a download speed of 137.4 Mbps, an upload speed of 16.4 Mbps, and a latency of 56 ms. The highest speed you could achieve was 175.5 Mbps. Here are some pros and cons of this APN:

Pros:

  • Faster download speed: The download speed of 137.4 Mbps is slightly faster than your previous APN, which could result in faster webpage loading times and smoother video streaming.
  • Higher maximum speed: The maximum speed of 175.5 Mbps is higher than your previous APN, which could benefit bandwidth-intensive activities such as online gaming or streaming 4K video.
  • Potentially more advanced settings and features: This APN may offer more advanced settings and features that could be useful for power users who want to customize their network settings.

Cons:

  • Higher latency: The latency of 56 ms is higher than your previous APN, which could delay the time it takes for data to be sent and received.
  • Lower upload speed: The upload speed of 16.4 Mbps is slightly lower than your previous APN, which could result in slower upload times for tasks such as uploading large files or streaming live video.

Overall, the choice of APN will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If low latency and a decent download speed are more important to you, then your previous APN may be the better choice. 

However, if you prioritize faster download speeds and potentially more advanced settings, then the APN provided by backdroid could be a better fit.

Risks of Changing APN Settings

Now, let’s dive into the risks of changing APN settings. The primary concern is that changing your APN settings incorrectly could make your device unable to connect to the internet. 

Additionally, you could expose your device to security risks, such as malware or phishing attacks, if you need to be more careful. Finally, changing your APN settings could result in your device malfunctioning or even becoming permanently damaged.

But don’t let these risks scare you away from changing your APN settings! The first step is to research the correct APN settings for your carrier. There are ways to do it safely. 

Make sure to double-check the information and only use reputable sources. Next, backup your device before making any changes to your APN settings.

This will allow you to restore your device if anything goes wrong. Finally, double-check the settings before saving, and consider consulting with your carrier or device manufacturer for guidance.

Benefits of Changing APN Settings

Now, let’s explore the benefits of changing your APN settings. Changing your APN settings can improve internet speed, connectivity, local services, and content access. For example, changing your APN settings could allow you to access the internet without incurring expensive roaming fees if traveling abroad.

Conclusion

You should try and test APN, and it’s good to keep the default apn on the phone.

In conclusion, changing your APN settings can be risky and significantly benefit your mobile internet experience. If you decide to do it, follow the tips outlined in this post to do it safely. Happy browsing!

Subscribe on YouTube!
Did you enjoy this tip? If so, check out our very own YouTube channel where we cover Internet & Network, Tips and Tricks and APN Settings, and have a bunch of troubleshooting tips and how-to videos. Click the button below to subscribe!

Leave a Comment