How SMS gateway works

The SMS gateway allows a computer to send or receive Short Message Service (SMS) transmissions to or from a telecommunications network, ultimately enabling SMS communication between devices and the global cellular network.

Components of an SMS Gateway

SMS Gateway Provider: These are third-party services that provide the infrastructure needed to send and receive SMS messages.

API: The application programming interface (API) provided by the SMS gateway provider allows developers to integrate SMS functionality into their applications.

Mobile Network: The cellular network that delivers SMS messages to the recipient's phone.

Working Mechanism

User Application: A user interacts with an application (e.g., a web app or mobile app) that triggers an SMS.

API Request: The application sends a request to the SMS gateway provider's API, usually including parameters like the recipient's phone number, the message content, and any authentication details.

Gateway Processing: The SMS gateway processes the API request. This involves checking the request for validity, ensuring the message content is within allowed limits and preparing the message for delivery.

Forwarding to Mobile Network: The SMS gateway forwards the message to the appropriate mobile network operator. This can be done through various protocols such as SMPP (Short Message Peer-to-Peer) or HTTP.

Delivery to Recipient: The mobile network operator then routes the SMS to the recipient's phone number. The message is delivered as a standard SMS to the recipient's mobile device.

Types of SMS Gateways

Direct-to-SMS Gateway: These SMS gateways connect directly to mobile network operators. They are usually faster and more reliable but might be more expensive.

Aggregator SMS Gateway: These gateways use multiple routes and operators to deliver SMS messages. They can offer better coverage and potentially lower costs but may have variable delivery times.