BSNL 5G Free Upgrade Step By Step Guide

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), BSNL 5G Free Upgrade – a state-owned telecommunications provider in India, has introduced its 5G service, branded as Q5G (Quantum 5G), and is offering a free upgrade for existing 2G, 3G, or 4G SIM users to a 4G/5G-ready SIM. This initiative is part of BSNL’s strategy to modernize its network and compete with private telecom giants like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea. The upgrade process is designed to be straightforward, allowing users to transition to a 5G-compatible SIM without additional costs. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to upgrading your BSNL SIM to a 4G/5G-ready SIM, incorporating both in-person and online methods, along with relevant BSNL website links for reference.  Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrade BSNL 2G/3G/4G SIM to 4G/5G-Ready SIMOption 1: Upgrading at a BSNL Customer Service Center (CSC) or Authorized Retailer.

• Locate a BSNL Customer Service Center or Authorized Retailer:
  • Visit the official BSNL website to find the nearest CSC or authorized retailer. You can access the BSNL Selfcare Portal to locate service centers in your region: BSNL Selfcare Portal.

• • Select your state or circle (e.g., Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, etc.) to view contact details or addresses of nearby CSCs. Alternatively, check the main BSNL website for customer service information: BSNL Official Website.

• • You can also call BSNL’s customer service hotline at 1800-180-1503 (toll-free) for assistance in locating a CSC.

• Prepare Required Documents:
  • Bring a valid government-issued ID for the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or driver’s license. Aadhaar is preferred for faster verification.
  • Carry a passport-sized photograph and, if possible, a copy of your current BSNL bill or account details to streamline the process.
  • Ensure your existing BSNL mobile number is active and linked to your ID.

• Visit the CSC or Retailer:
  • Schedule a visit to the CSC or authorized retailer during working hours (typically 9 AM to 5 PM, though hours may vary by location).
  • Inform the customer service representative that you want to upgrade your 2G, 3G, or 4G SIM to a 4G/5G-ready SIM. Specify whether you prefer a prepaid or postpaid connection.

• Complete the KYC Process:
  • Submit your ID and other required documents for e-KYC verification. The representative will verify your details electronically, often using your Aadhaar number and an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
  • Fill out any necessary forms, including details like your name, address, and alternate contact number.

• Receive the New SIM:
  • Upon successful KYC verification, you will receive a new 4G/5G-ready BSNL SIM card at no cost. These SIMs are typically nano-SIMs but come with adapters for micro or standard SIM slots.

• • The new SIM will be linked to your existing mobile number, ensuring continuity of service.
• Activate the SIM:
  • Insert the new SIM into your 5G-compatible smartphone. Ensure your device supports 5G bands (e.g., 3300 MHz or 700 MHz, which BSNL plans to use for 5G).

• • Follow the activation instructions provided by the representative, which may include dialing a specific number (e.g., *123#) or completing tele-verification.
  • Activation typically takes 10–15 minutes but may require up to 24 hours in some cases. If you face issues like no network signal, manually search for the BSNL network in your phone’s settings or restart the device.

Option 2: Ordering a 4G/5G-Ready SIM Online with Doorstep Delivery

• Visit the BSNL Online Portal:
  • Access the BSNL Selfcare Portal for your specific zone to initiate the online SIM ordering process: BSNL Selfcare Portal.

• • Zone-specific links include:
    • South Zone: http://selfcare.sdc.bsnl.co.in
    • North Zone: http://selfcare.ndc.bsnl.co.in
    • West Zone: http://selfcare.wdc.bsnl.co.in
    • East Zone: http://selfcare.edc.bsnl.co.in.

• • Alternatively, check for online SIM ordering options on the main BSNL website: BSNL Official Website.

• Register or Log In:
  • If you’re a new user, register on the Selfcare Portal by entering your customer ID (found on your BSNL bill) or mobile number, email ID, username, and a security question.
  • BSNL will verify your details via a call from customer care within 24 hours to activate your account. Upon verification, you’ll receive a username and password for login.

• • Existing users can log in directly with their credentials.

• Complete e-KYC for SIM Upgrade:
  • Navigate to the customer registration or SIM upgrade section on the portal.
  • Enter required details, including your PIN code, name, alternate mobile number, and whether you want a prepaid or postpaid connection.
  • Verify your mobile number by entering the OTP sent to your registered or alternate number.

BSNL 5G Free Upgrade Step By Step Guide | iiQ8 Technology

• Order the SIM:
  • After e-KYC verification, request a 4G/5G-ready SIM card. Confirm your delivery address for doorstep delivery.
  • BSNL claims delivery within 90 minutes in some areas, though this may vary depending on location and availability.

• Receive and Activate the SIM:
  • The new SIM will be delivered to your doorstep with doorstep KYC verification, where a BSNL representative may verify your ID in person.
  • Insert the SIM into your phone and follow the activation process, which may involve tele-verification or dialing a specific code.
  • If you encounter network issues, manually select the BSNL network in your phone’s settings or contact BSNL customer care via the Selfcare Portal or hotline.

BSNL 5G Free Upgrade Step By Step Guide | iiQ8 Technology

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Additional Information and Considerations

• 5G Availability: BSNL’s Q5G service is currently in the testing phase in select cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala. If 5G is not yet available in your area, the new SIM will still provide 4G connectivity. BSNL aims to complete its 4G rollout with 100,000 towers by mid-2025, followed by a 5G launch within 6–8 months.

• Device Compatibility: Ensure your smartphone supports 5G bands (e.g., 700 MHz and 3300 MHz for BSNL’s 5G) to access 5G speeds. Older devices may only support 4G on BSNL’s 700 MHz or 2100 MHz bands.

• Network Challenges: Some users have reported issues like patchy 4G coverage, no VoLTE support, or delays in SMS/OTP delivery after upgrading. If you face similar issues, contact BSNL customer care through the Selfcare Portal or hotline.

• Promotional Offers: BSNL often provides free data benefits with SIM upgrades, such as 4GB of free data. Check the BSNL website or Selfcare Portal for ongoing promotions: BSNL Prepaid Plans.

• Market Context: BSNL’s affordable tariffs and free SIM upgrades have attracted users, especially after recent tariff hikes by private operators like Jio and Airtel. In July 2024, BSNL added over 2.17 lakh users in Andhra Pradesh alone.

Troubleshooting and Support

• If you face issues like no network signal or activation delays, try restarting your phone, manually selecting the BSNL network, or contacting customer care via the BSNL Selfcare Portal https://selfcare.bsnl.co.in or the toll-free number 1800-180-1503.

• For real-time updates on BSNL’s 5G rollout or service issues, check BSNL’s official X handle (@BSNLCorporate) or the BSNL website.

Why Upgrade to BSNL 4G/5G?

• Cost-Effective Plans: BSNL offers competitive prepaid and postpaid plans, often cheaper than private operators, with benefits like data rollover for postpaid users.

• Improved Connectivity: The 4G/5G-ready SIM supports faster speeds and better reliability, especially in areas with upgraded infrastructure.

• Indigenous Technology: BSNL’s 4G/5G network uses homegrown technology from TCS, Tejas Networks, and C-DOT, aligning with India’s Atma Nirbhar Bharat mission.

• Future-Ready: The new SIMs are 5G-ready, ensuring compatibility when BSNL fully launches 5G services by late 2025.

By following these steps and using the provided BSNL website links, you can seamlessly upgrade to a 4G/5G-ready SIM and take advantage of BSNL’s expanding network capabilities. For further assistance, visit BSNL’s Official Website or the BSNL Selfcare Portal.

BSNL 5G Free Upgrade Step By Step Guide | iiQ8 Technology