Method and apparatus for a unit locked against use until unlocked and/or activated on a selected network

The present invention relates generally to the field of wireless communications systems, and relates particularly to the field of activation of wireless units used in wireless communications systems. Methods and apparatus to provide for a unit that is locked against use for communications until the unit is unlocked and that may be activated on a selected network in conjunction with the unit being unlocked. A unit includes a memory for storing an unlock code specific to the unit. The unlock code is used to unlock the unit and is unbreakable without knowledge of a secret code and an algorithm. The unlock code is generated by using the algorithm with the secret code and an identifier unique to the unit. The unit also includes a control for receipt of an input code and a system identification number with the input code and the system identification number having originated from the selected network. The unit further includes a processor to effect a comparison of the input code to the unlock code, to effect an unlocking of the unit if the comparison results in a finding that the input code is substantially equal to the unlock code, and if the unlocking is effected, to effect activation of the unit on the selected network based on the system identification number.