The reply came seconds later:

But one user, handle had posted something different:

: "Free Unlocker.exe" downloads often contain trojans that steal personal data.

Network locking is a subsidy practice. When you bought your ZTE router from a carrier (like Telstra, Vodafone, EE, T-Mobile, or Xfinity), you paid a subsidized price. In exchange for that discount, the carrier installs a lock so you cannot use a competitor's SIM card.

The account holder's name, phone number, and account number.

Some older ZTE router models can be unlocked by overwriting the carrier-customized firmware with a generic, unbranded global firmware version.

If a website asks for your credit card for a "free" code, run. If it asks you to download software for a "free" code, run faster.

To help narrow down the exact steps for your device, tell me: What is the of your ZTE router? Which network carrier is the device currently locked to?

Network locking restricts your ZTE router to a single service provider. This guide explains how network unlocking works, the reality of free 16-digit codes, and safe methods to unlock your device. Understanding the 16-Digit ZTE Unlock Code