Reference section - SMS

FAQ

Common questions relating to SMS

Short Message Service

FAQ

What is an SMS Gateway?

An SMS gateway enables an application to send or receive Short Message Service (SMS) to or from a telecommunications network. The SMS gateway will provide one or more SMS APIs to enable an application to submit SMS to the gateway and receive SMS from the gateway. See the definition of an SMS gateway.

How does bulk SMS work?

Bulk SMS is the sending of large quantities of SMS messages. This typically involves the use of an SMS gateway that is used to send the messages to mobile networks for onward delivery to mobile phones. An SMS gateway provide has SMS API and portals that can be used to submit the messages to their gateway, including SMPP and REST APIs, and web SMS portals. See Bulk SMS for more information.

How do I start my own SMS gateway?

Get our SMPP SMS Gateway cloud platform and operate your own SMS gateway. Use with SMS gateway and mobile network operator connections from your suppliers. If you wish, you can also use our Tyr SMS Gateway to deliver SMS.

Is there a cheaper alternative to Twilio?

Twilio SMS pricing for some destinations can be expensive and cheaper alternatives for a similar service are certainly available. Shop around, but also take a look at our SMS pricing for our Tyr SMS Gateway.

What is SMPP?

Short Message Peer-to-Peer (SMPP) is a protocol used as an SMS API for applications to send and receive SMS. SMPP is used between the application and an SMS gateway or mobile network operator's SMSC.

How do I receive SMS?

To receive SMS into your application or web SMS portal you need a short code, virtual mobile number or SIM hosting. With SIM hosting, you can either have a physical SIM hosted in a GSM modem or use virtual SIM hosting.

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