In the past I have always bought my iPhones at the store and they were activated for me. This time I ordered a phone from online Apple Store. Also I am switching from ATT so I want to port my number. So, how do I activate it? Call Verizon or can I do it through the web?
It should come ready to activate, just turn it on. At worst call *228. If that doesn't do the trick call in.
Will turning it on also "port" my number? If so, do I need to erase and back-up everything off my old phone first? sorry for the seemingly simple questions.
If the iPhone is like other phones then know that will not port your number. Yes back up everything from your old phone.
You thought wrong. You can port your number from cdma to gsm and even port landline numbers to cellphone now.
For Verizon, I had to call Verizon with the iPhone to get it activated. There should be instructions in the delivery box.
It should but it really depends on how you've set up the porting. Call Verizon to verify. IIRC *228 should not be used for the 5 (or any LTE device). You might want to keep "always consider the source" in mind.