smsgateway

Smsgateway is a term used to describe a gateway system that enables the sending and receiving of short message service (SMS) texts between information systems and mobile networks. It functions as an interface that connects an application to a mobile network operator’s SMSC (short message service center), allowing automated messaging for notifications, alerts, verification codes, and customer communication.

Implementation and protocols

SMSGateways can be hardware-based, using GSM modems and SIM cards connected to a computer, or software/cloud-based services accessed via an API. Common interfaces include SMPP (for high-throughput, programmatic messaging), HTTP/REST APIs, and, in some cases, email or webhooks for inbound messages. Features often include outbound messaging, inbound routing, delivery receipts, scheduling, support for Unicode, and configurable sender IDs or alphanumeric names.

Types and components

A hardware gateway provides on-device SIM-based transmission, suitable for on-site deployments and specialized routing. A software or cloud gateway offers remote access through APIs, requiring fewer local resources and enabling larger-scale or cross‑region messaging. Some providers offer two-way messaging, where replies are delivered back to the application via callbacks or webhooks.

Applications and considerations

SMSGateways are used for transactional and promotional messaging, including order confirmations, OTPs, alerts, and customer communications. They offer benefits such as automation and scalability but require attention to cost, throughput, deliverability, and compliance with privacy and anti-spam regulations. Carrier filtering and country-specific rules may affect delivery reliability.

See also

SMS gateway, SMS API, SMPP, two-way SMS, OTP.