An ESN is an Electronic Serial Number, and it’s the unique identifier for your device. Knowing your device’s ESN can be helpful when troubleshooting issues with your phone or when making a purchase.
In this article, we’ll explain what an ESN number is and show you how to find it on your smartphone. We’ll also provide some tips for troubleshooting any issues that may arise from having the wrong ESN associated with your device.

So let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The ESN, or Electronic Serial Number, is a unique identifier for a mobile device that is recorded with every call and text.
- It is important for carriers to determine if a device is stolen and for customer service purposes.
- The ESN can be found in the Settings or About Phone section of a smartphone, on the back or under the battery compartment, or on a sticker in the phone box.
- Troubleshooting issues with a smartphone may involve resetting network settings, checking for software updates, deleting/reinstalling apps, verifying permissions, and contacting service providers if necessary.
What is an ESN Number?
An ESN is a unique identification code assigned to each mobile phone. It’s used to track and keep records of your device’s use. Every time you make a call or send a text message, the ESN is recorded. This means law enforcement and other agencies can access the information if necessary.
The ESN helps carriers determine if a device has been reported stolen. If someone tries to activate a stolen phone, the carrier will immediately know it’s not allowed on their network due to its history. This makes it difficult for thieves to resell stolen phones undetected.
Knowing where your phone’s ESN number is located can be important. If you need to contact customer service regarding your device, they may ask for this information to easily locate your account in their system.
Depending on your phone type, the location of the ESN number varies. Most smartphones display it in either Settings or About Phone. Always ask customer service first if you’re unsure how to find it!
How to Find the ESN Number on Your Smartphone?
Discovering the Electronic Serial Number, or ESN, of your cellphone doesn’t have to be a chore – it’s as easy as pie! Depending on the type of cellular carrier you use and your phone model, there are several ways to locate this important number.
For example, if you’re using an Android device from Verizon Wireless, you can find the ESN by going to Settings > About Phone > Status. If you’re using an iPhone from AT&T, simply dial *#06# and your device’s ESN will appear onscreen. For those with other types of phones and carriers, contact your carrier’s customer service department for help locating the ESN.
When looking for your device’s ESN number, it is important to know that many times it is referred to as a MEID (Mobile Equipment Identifier) or IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). These numbers are all unique identifiers specific to each individual device and can usually be found on the back or underneath the battery compartment.
It may also be printed in tiny letters on a sticker found in the box that came with your phone when purchased new. No matter what type of phone or network provider you use, finding out its ESN does not have to be difficult.
A quick search online should provide detailed instructions about how to locate this important piece of information for your particular device and network provider combination. So don’t put off discovering just how easy it is – start searching now!
Troubleshooting Issues with Your Device

One of the most common issues people face with their smartphones is network or app compatibility. Here are some of the ways you can troubleshoot these types of problems:
- Reset your phone’s network settings
- Check for software updates
- Delete and re-install apps that may be causing issues
- Verify that all relevant permissions are enabled in your settings
- Clear app cache and data from time to time.
Be sure to check if other devices connected to the same network have similar compatibility issues. If so, then it may be worthwhile to switch networks or contact your service provider for assistance.
Additionally, make sure that third-party apps don’t interfere with critical system functions as this can cause serious performance problems.
With a few easy steps, you should be able to get back up and running again quickly!
Conclusion
Finding your ESN number on your smartphone is easy. Just open your device’s settings and look for the “About phone” option. You’ll find it there. If that doesn’t work, try calling your cell phone provider, and they can provide you with the information you need.
Knowing your ESN number can help if you ever need to replace or repair your device. An interesting statistic to note is that 90% of Americans own a smartphone. So, learning how to find an ESN number may come in handy more often than one might think!
Knowing how to locate this important piece of information is essential for any smartphone user. Now that you know where to find it, be sure to keep track of it for future reference.
As a professional trainer and a gadget lover, I’ve spent a lot of money and time buying wearable activity trackers, smartwatches, and gadgets, and checking them out. My site is focused on helping you with your activity tracking and smart technology journey. I try to provide the most helpful updated content on this subject. Hopefully, you will love my blogs and be a regular around here.