Settings blocking eSIM data: Low Data Mode, VPN, Private DNS

Settings blocking eSIM data are a common hidden cause: a VPN, Low Data Mode, Data Saver, a custom Private DNS or iCloud Private Relay can stop or slow your connection. While troubleshooting, turn them off, test your connection, then turn back on only what you need, one at a time.

Low Data Mode and Data Saver blocking eSIM data

These modes pause background activity, so apps may not refresh and some features stop working on mobile data.

iPhone

1. Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
2. With two lines: tap the travel eSIM and turn off Low Data Mode. With one line: tap Cellular Data Options and turn off Low Data Mode. On 5G iPhones it is under Data Mode.

Android

• Samsung: Settings > Connections > Data usage > Data saver.
• Google Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > Data Saver.

VPN apps

A VPN sends all your data through another server, which can slow the connection or stop it completely on some networks. Open your VPN app and disconnect. If the app connects automatically ("always on" or "connect on demand"), turn that option off while you test.

Private DNS (Android)

A custom Private DNS address can stop pages loading on some networks.

• Google Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > Private DNS. Choose Automatic (the default) or Off, then tap Save.
• Samsung: Settings > Connections > More connection settings > Private DNS.

Menu names vary by brand.

iCloud Private Relay (iPhone)

• To pause it everywhere: Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Private Relay, then tap Turn Off Until Tomorrow.
• To turn it off just for the eSIM: Settings > Cellular, tap the travel eSIM and turn off Limit IP Address Tracking.

Apps that only work on Wi-Fi

If only one app fails, check that it is allowed to use mobile data. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular and scroll to the list of apps: an app that is switched off there uses Wi-Fi only.

When a VPN helps

A VPN can help you download the eSIM when a network blocks eSIM servers: see Unable to activate eSIM. Turn it off right after installing. If you use a VPN to reach home services abroad, read why your eSIM IP shows another country.

Still not working?

Tell us which of these settings you use. Reply to your order email or write to us through the contact page (support@esimcircle.com). To get a fast answer, include your order number, the eSIM's ICCID, the country and network name your phone shows, and screenshots of the error and of the eSIM's cellular settings. See what to send support for where to find each item.