Carriers subsidize the cost of hardware. A $100 ZTE modem might be sold to you for $20 if you sign a 24-month data contract. To ensure you don't buy the cheap modem and immediately switch to a cheaper competitor, the carrier installs a Network Lock Code (NCK).
Once the contract ends, or if you bought the device second-hand, you are legally entitled to unlock it. However, the carrier makes the process cumbersome, which is why millions of users search for "zte model ac796 unlock" every year. zte model ac796 unlock
The ZTE AC796 is a legacy 3G USB modem (HSPA/UMTS/EDGE/GPRS) commonly locked to specific carriers such as Telstra (Australia), Bell (Canada), or various Asian GSM operators. It uses a SIM-based lock mechanism preventing the use of competitor network SIM cards. Carriers subsidize the cost of hardware
You cannot unlock a modem without verifying it is actually locked. Follow this quick test: Once the contract ends, or if you bought