How eSIM helps companies save costs and time while streamlining management
Imagine this: you’re running a business with offices in different countries around the world, and every router at each location relies on a physical SIM card to stay connected. Now, picture the chaos if at the initial deployment, someone needs to insert SIM cards into each and every router, or you want to swap out each SIM card to switch to a better network provider. Since there are different carriers in every country, this management and logistical nightmare could quickly become a reality.
That’s where eSIM comes to the rescue. Instead of juggling physical cards, eSIM lets you manage all your connections remotely. It's like swapping your old CDs for a playlist — instant, digital, flexible and hassle-free. For businesses, this means less downtime, lower costs, and increased efficiency, productivity, security, and convenience.
What is an eSIM?
In short, eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a digital SIM that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card to connect devices to a mobile network. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs can be built into the devices or they can be plastic eSIM cards that can be inserted into older devices that were not equipped with embedded eSIMs. This allows older devices to take advantage of eSIM functionality as well. They can also be programmed remotely, allowing businesses to change network carriers or update connectivity settings without swapping physical SIMs.
For business routers, eSIM technology enables seamless connectivity and flexibility, making it a critical solution for enterprises with widespread deployments across diverse geographies.
Cost savings and benefits of eSIMs for business routers
Routers with eSIMs can significantly reduce operational costs, including deployment, labor, downtime, and the ability to switch to more cost-effective carriers.
Lower deployment, labor costs and time savings
With remote provisioning, businesses can save money on the labor and logistics of physically installing SIMs. It can cost between $100 and $200 an hour to deploy a technician to fix or reinstall SIMs, which usually takes at least an hour to complete. These types of tasks (troubleshooting, network updates, or carrier changes), that once required hours — can now be done in just minutes. For example, a business with 500 routers deployed across multiple cities can activate their SIMs remotely, saving thousands of hours annually.
Optimized carrier plans and time-specific provisioning
Businesses use eSIM technology to switch to more cost-effective carriers or plans quickly and at any time, offering better data rates or coverage. This helps ensure they always get the best value for their investment; over time, this optimization can lead to substantial cost savings. Also, businesses can activate and deactivate connectivity plans as needed for seasonal, international travel or temporary projects without committing to long-term contracts, ensuring their resources are used efficiently. Plus, they don’t have to worry about the additional logistics of physical SIMs if the router and the SIM card come from separate locations and vendors.
Less ongoing storage and management of SIMs
The ability to remotely switch carriers reduces costs in purchases, storage, travel and maintenance. As a result, businesses no longer need to purchase and maintain a stockpile of physical SIM cards or coordinate shipments for replacements.
Greener footprint
Compared to traditional SIMs, eSIMs offer a greener footprint, which is a massive consideration since many companies have significant sustainability and netzero targets. According to Techradar.com, eSIMs emit 46% less CO2 over their life cycle. Physical SIMs require materials and energy to produce; generate emissions during transportation; and, once they're retired, need to be disposed of correctly.
Centralized control
A unified platform for managing eSIMs alongside the cellular router provides better, real-time visibility into network usage and helps simplify troubleshooting across all carriers.
Enhanced security
Carrier selection intelligence
Carrier selection intelligence, the practice of using data and analytics to make informed decisions when choosing a transportation carrier, makes it much easier to identify the most secure, best-performing carrier in each location.
Reduced risk of theft and improved compliance
Since eSIMs are smaller and harder to physically access, they add an extra layer of security and help discourage theft and SIM swapping – when an individual takes physical SIM cards out of enterprise devices to sell or use them. Also, eSIM-enabled routers can support secure, region-specific connectivity to meet local data privacy laws.
Activating the eSIM
Insights, steps and resources
Depending on the carrier, type of router and the specific business needs, there are some do-it-yourself options for activating eSIMs. Most methods typically require users to be somewhat tech-savvy and familiar with routers, but all of the activation options can be done by following router-specific, step-by-step directions.
To activate an eSIM in any router, there are some basic things you need to know before getting started. You first need to ensure that your router supports eSIM functionality. Once you verify that, you’ll need to get an eSIM plan from your carrier and be connected to a Wi-Fi network for the initial activation process.
General steps for eSIM router activation
- Go to the admin panel: The first step for any router is typically accessing the admin panel: Connect to the router's network and open a web browser (you’ll usually need to enter the router's IP address to access the admin panel, so have that information ready)
- Find the management section: Navigate to the routers eSIM management section (typically found within the router settings)
- Add the eSIM profile: Once you’re there, you’ll have to either scan a QR code containing the eSIM profile information or manually enter the activation code (provided by your carrier)
- Initiate activation: Once the eSIM profile information has been recognized, you will be guided through the rest of the activation process, which may require entering an activation code (typically provided by your cellular carrier) that allows you to establish a cellular connection
- Set the priority (if needed): Depending on your router model, you may need to set the eSIM as the primary connection by adjusting the priority order of the available SIMs
Real-world applications of eSIM for business routers
Retail
Retail chains rely on uninterrupted connectivity for point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management, and customer engagement tools. Routers with eSIMs enable retailers to:
- Switch to the strongest network available in each store location
- Quickly activate day one connectivity for new stores, pop-up sites or seasonal locations
Logistics and transportation
Fleet managers depend on consistent connectivity to track vehicles, monitor shipments, and communicate with drivers. eSIM provides:
- The critical ability to keep public safety vehicles on the road at all times
- Global coverage
- The ability to optimize costs by connecting to local carriers in different regions
Manufacturing
Smart factories require secure, scalable connectivity for IoT devices and automated systems. eSIM technology allows manufacturers to:
- Remotely manage connectivity for thousands of SIM-connected devices across a facility
- Comply with local regulations by leveraging region-specific eSIM configurations
The future of eSIM in enterprise networking
The adoption of eSIM technology is growing rapidly as businesses recognize its potential. Looking ahead, eSIM will play a critical role in the development of:
- IoT ecosystems: Simplifying the management of millions of connected devices
- Private 5G networks: Providing secure, dynamic connectivity for enterprises adopting private 5G solutions
- Global enterprise networks: Enabling seamless cellular connectivity across borders and multiple providers with minimal effort
As eSIM technology continues to evolve, its integration with cloud platforms and AI-driven analytics will unlock even greater benefits, such as predictive maintenance, intelligent network optimization, and enhanced security.
For enterprises looking to stay ahead in a competitive landscape, adopting eSIM-enabled routers is not just a smart decision — it’s a transformative one. Whether you’re managing a retail chain, a fleet of vehicles, or a global network of IoT devices, eSIM technology provides the connectivity and scalability needed to thrive in the digital age.