SMS Service Provider Connections
In this article, we introduce the different types of service provider connections. You can read a summary of the characteristics of the various service provider connections through which the Ozeki SMS Gateway software sends and receives bulk business SMS messages.
What is SMS service provider connection
The SMS service provider connection enables the connection of an SMS messaging platform or SMS Gateway to the network of the mobile service provider when sending and receiving SMS messages.
What SMS Service provider connections are there?
There are two connection types:
- IP SMS connection
- Wireless SMS connection
With the IP SMS connection (sms over IP), the communication link is connected to the mobile network infrastructure via the Internet.
The task of the wireless SMS connection is to create a communication link between the mobile device and the mobile network infrastructure.
How are they connected to the SMS Centre
IP SMS connection: You can connect directly to the SMS Center of a GSM service provider over the Internet (IP SMS connection). In this case, you need to make a contract with the service provider. In compensation for your subscription, the GSM service provider will provide you with the information required for connecting to the SMS Centre over the Internet (hostname, port, username, password).
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Wireless SMS connection: You can connect to the SMS Centre using a GSM modem attached to the PC with a phone-to-PC data cable. In this case you pay for the service by buying a SIM card from the service provider.
Direct connection to the SMS Centre by setting up an IP SMS account with one or more GSM service providers has several advantages, including a greater speed and reliability.
For SMS messaging with a GSM modem, you need to use a suitable GSM device. For more information, check out the following guide: Recommended hardware / GSM modems
What does the SMS service provider do
The service provider is responsible for the transmission of text messages between mobile devices and the Ozeki SMS Gateway in the process of sending and receiving SMS.
How the SMS service provider connection works
In the IP SMS messaging, the service provider connection of Ozeki SMS gateway transfers the outgoing messages to the SMSC. The messages from the SMSC are forwarded to the recipient's mobile phone and other GSM devices.
The SMSC transfers incoming messages from mobile devices to the Ozeki SMS gateway, which forwards them to SMS APIs, SMS clients and other mobile devices connected to the SMS gateway.
Is it free to connect directly to an SMSC with an SMS provider connection
The direct SMS Centre connection requires an IP SMS connection. In order to establish an IP connection, it is necessary to sign a contract with the mobile service provider. For each SMS service provider you want to connect with the Ozeki SMS gateway, you need to sign a separate service provider contract.
Is it possible to operate multiple connections to the same mobile service provider at the same time
Yes. The Ozeki SMS Gateway software allows for the configuration of various connection data. This includes the ability to set up different types of connections, such as a standard price SMS connection and a premium rate service connection, with the same mobile service provider.
What is needed to send and receive SMS messages directly to the SMSC
To send and receive SMS messages directly to the SMSC, you will need the following:
- An SMS gateway or messaging software that supports direct SMSC connectivity
- Access to the SMSC connection details, such as the SMSC IP address, port number, and login credentials
- A reliable network connection to establish a connection with the SMSC
- Proper configuration of the SMS gateway to establish and manage the SMSC connection
- Adequate permissions and authorization from the relevant authorities or service providers to access the SMSC directly
By fulfilling these requirements, you can establish a direct connection to the SMSC and send or receive SMS messages without intermediaries.
The most important conditions for establishing a direct SMSC service connection:
- You have to subscribe to services provided by one or more GSM service providers and fulfil the necessary payment obligations
- You have to connect Ozeki SMS Gateway to the SMS Centre of one or more service providers
To be able to send and receive SMS messages using Ozeki SMS Gateway, you need to pay one or more GSM service providers for the service described above, and you have to connect Ozeki SMS Gateway to the SMS Centre of one or more service providers.
What is the communication format between the SMS Center and SMS Platform or SMS software
The format of SMS messages exchanged between Ozeki SMS Gateway, and the SMS Centre of the GSM service provider is governed by an SMS protocol. When you install a service provider connection, you have to select the appropriate protocol. The service provider will tell you which protocol to use and will give you the protocol-specific parameters, such as the username and password, IP address etc.
Ozeki SMS Gateway allows the installation and configuration of the following protocols / service provider connections:
To establish a wireless connection, you have the option of connecting the Ozeki SMS Gateway to an Android mobile phone, an SMS modem (like Ozeki 4G/5G SMS Modem), or an SMS modem pool. In each of these scenarios, you will utilize the SIM card within the device to send SMS messages, just as you would from a regular mobile phone. This allows you to connect to a mobile network with wireless devices.
When it comes to utilizing an Internet connection, you have an additional option to connect your Ozeki SMS Gateway software to the mobile network. You can connect with a secure link directly to the SMSC of a mobile network or an SMS Aggregator company either use a secure TCP/IP connection or a VPN link. To send your SMS messages through this setup, you will typically employ an IP SMS protocol such as SMPP, UCP, HTTP, HTTPS, or CIMD2.
To initiate SMS messaging via an Internet connection, it is necessary to enter into a contract with a mobile network or an SMS aggregator company. This agreement will grant you access to their network by providing login credentials, including an IP address, username, and password, along with the specific protocol to be used. It's important to note that they will charge you for the SMS messages you send.
The most important information about wireless SMS connections
Android mobile SMS connection:
An Android mobile SMS connection is a powerful feature that allows you to utilize your Android phone as an SMS modem, enabling communication between your Windows PC and the mobile network. By installing an SMS gateway app on your Android device and connecting it to your PC over Wi-Fi, you gain the ability to send and receive SMS messages seamlessly.
This offers a lot of possibilities, such as sending SMS messages directly from Windows applications like Microsoft Excel and setting up automated SMS notifications for various business purposes. Utilizing an Android mobile SMS connection provides several advantages, including cost savings by leveraging network tariffs, quick setup time without the need for contracts with online SMS service providers, and compatibility with multiple business applications through built-in APIs.
Additionally, operating your own SMS gateway on an Android mobile phone offers independence, reduced downtime, and the assurance that your contact list remains secure. For your company's SMS messaging requirements, this solution provides convenience and flexibility.
In Ozeki SMS Gateway, a SMS modem connection refers to the establishment of a communication link between the SMS Gateway software and a GSM modem device. It allows the SMS Gateway to send and receive SMS messages via the connected modem, which is connected to the mobile network via the SMS modem connection. You can send and receive SMS with the Ozeki 4G/5G SMS Modem, or you can use a modem pool.
A GSM modem is a hardware device that enables connection with a service provider for sending automated or bulk messages. By inserting a SIM card into the modem, connecting the antenna and USB cable, and launching the Ozeki SMS Gateway, you can send SMS messages from your computer. With the modem's power LED indicating its functionality, you can configure the modem in Ozeki SMS Gateway and start sending messages to recipients' mobile phones.
You have the option to utilize the Ozeki 4G/5G SMS Modem to send and receive SMS messages, providing a reliable and efficient means of communication. Alternatively, you can also consider using a modem pool, which allows you to manage multiple SIM cards simultaneously, increasing SMS capacity and enhancing your ability to handle bulk SMS messages effectively. Whether you choose the dedicated Ozeki 4G/5G SMS Modem, or opt for a modem pool, these solutions enable seamless SMS communication to engage with your audience efficiently.
Additionally, with a GSM modem, you can also receive SMS messages for free. Once configured and connected to the Ozeki SMS Gateway, the modem allows you to receive incoming SMS messages on your computer, providing a convenient and cost-effective solution for managing SMS communication.
The most important information about IP SMS connections
SMPP, which stands for Short Message Peer-to-Peer Protocol, is an industry-standard protocol designed to transmit SMS messages over TCP/IP connections on the Internet. An SMPP SMS connection allows you to establish a connection with an SMS service provider and efficiently send and receive SMS text messages. By configuring the SMPP client connection with the necessary credentials and settings, you can establish a reliable link to the Short Message Service Centre (SMSC) of a mobile network operator, ensuring effective delivery of messages to recipients' mobile devices.
A UCP/EMI SMS connection is a mobile network link that allows you to connect your SMS gateway/SMS Server/SMS Platform to the Short Message Service Centre (SMSC) of a mobile network operator. UCP stands for Universal Computer Protocol, and it is a communication protocol used for mobile connection. To establish a UCP client connection you need to have the hostname, port, UCP OAdC, password, and telephone number. Once connected, you can send and receive SMS messages through the UCP connection, enabling messaging from a computer to mobile users. By configuring and utilizing an UCP SMS connection, you can achieve efficient and reliable messaging capabilities.
The HTTP Client connection serves as a convenient method to establish a direct connection between your PC and the Short Message Service Centre (SMSC) for sending SMS messages over the Internet. An HTTP GET or HTTP POST request is used for each sent message. Whether you need to send text-based or binary SMS messages, the HTTP Client connection supports both message types, offering flexibility in the content you can send.
In addition to HTTP, HTTPS (HTTP Secure) is another widely used protocol for establishing secure communication over the internet. HTTPS incorporates encryption mechanisms, such as SSL/TLS, to ensure data confidentiality and integrity during transmission. This added layer of security makes HTTPS an essential choice for sensitive transactions, including sending and receiving SMS messages that require protection against unauthorized access or interception. By leveraging HTTPS connection, businesses can enhance the security of their SMS communication and safeguard sensitive information exchanged between their systems and SMS service providers. Despite its limitations in efficiently sending and receiving SMS messages, remains popular among businesses due to its ease of setup.
The CIMD2 protocol, short for Computer Interface to Message Distribution version 2, is used by mobile network operators in Europe to offer IP SMS services to their customers. By establishing a TCP/IP connection to the Short Message Service Centre (SMSC) of a mobile network operator, the CIMD2 connection allows users to connect their SMS Gateway systems directly to the SMSC.
The SMS sending process involves instructing the computer to send the message through the CIMD2 client connection, which forwards the information to the SMS Centre. From there, the SMSC handles the delivery of the text message to the intended recipients. You can also receive messages with the CIMD2 connection.
Summary:
In this comprehensive article, we explored the various types of service provider connections available for the Ozeki SMS Gateway software to send and receive bulk business SMS messages. We learned that there are two main connection types: IP SMS connection and wireless SMS connection.
The IP SMS connection allows the establishment of a communication link between the SMS Gateway and the mobile network infrastructure via the Internet. This requires signing a contract with a GSM service provider and obtaining the necessary connection details, such as hostname, port, username, and password.
On the other hand, the wireless SMS connection involves connecting the SMS Gateway to devices like Android mobile phones, SMS modems, or SMS modem pools. This connection utilizes the SIM card within the device to send SMS messages, similar to a regular mobile phone.
Additionally, we discussed the option of establishing a secure link directly to the SMS Centre through an Internet connection. This can be achieved via a secure TCP/IP connection or a VPN link, using IP SMS protocols like SMPP, UCP, HTTP, HTTPS, or CIMD2.
However, it's important to note that connecting directly to an SMSC or using an Internet connection requires entering into contracts with mobile service providers or SMS aggregator companies. Charges will apply for the SMS messages sent.
Overall, by understanding the different service provider connections and following the necessary procedures, users of Ozeki SMS Gateway can establish reliable connections with mobile networks and efficiently send and receive SMS messages for their business needs.
FAQs
Which phone models/GSM modems do you recommend?
- Wavecom Fastrack MB1306B
- Siemens MC35
- Siemens TC65
- Maestro 100
- Built-in Modem: The device needs a built-in modem for sending and receiving SMS messages.
- Data Cable Connection: You'll need a data cable (either USB or RS232) to connect the modem to your computer.
- GSM 7.05 Standard Support: The modem must be compatible with the GSM 7.05 standard, which is essential for SMS functionality.
- Avoid Symbian OS: Steer clear of phones using Symbian OS. While they might send SMS, receiving messages can be problematic.
If you're looking for more affordable options, there's good news! Most GSM handsets from Siemens and Sony Ericsson are also compatible with SMS Gateway use. These provide a cost-effective alternative while still offering good functionality. However, it's important to avoid Nokia models and PCMCIA modems, as we've encountered compatibility issues with them in the past. An additional heads-up: while phones with Symbian OS can send SMS messages, they might not be able to receive them consistently. So, for reliable two-way communication, industrial modems or compatible Siemens/Sony Ericsson handsets are the way to go.
Can I use Ozeki SMS Gateway on Linux platform?
While Ozeki SMS Gateway doesn't currently have a dedicated Linux version, you
can still leverage its functionalities on your Linux system! Here's how:
Run it on Windows within a Virtual Machine: Install a virtual machine
application on your Linux machine and run the Windows version of Ozeki SMS
Gateway within that virtual environment. This allows you to enjoy the software's
features while staying on your preferred Linux platform.
Alternative Solutions:
If using a virtual machine isn't ideal, explore alternative SMS Gateway software
options that offer native Linux support.
Can I connect a GSM modem over IP to the software?
Ozeki SMS Gateway offers flexibility in your choice of GSM modem connectivity. Alongside traditional serial or USB modems, you can leverage IP-based solutions for a more versatile setup. Here's what you need to know:
- IP-based GSM/GPRS Modems: These modems connect to your network via IP, eliminating the need for a direct physical connection to your computer.
- IP to Serial Converters: If you have a standard serial GSM modem, you can use an IP to serial converter to bridge the gap. This converter allows your computer to communicate with the modem over the network through a virtual serial port.
Within Ozeki SMS Gateway, you can configure this virtual serial port during the GSM modem configuration process to seamlessly integrate your IP-based modem or converter setup.
By enabling IP-based connectivity, you gain additional flexibility in modem placement and network management within your Ozeki SMS Gateway environment.
Can I change the sender phone number if I use a GSM Modem?
While Ozeki SMS Gateway offers powerful features, there are inherent limitations when using GSM modems for sending SMS messages. Here's what you need to be aware of:
- GSM Technology Restriction: Unfortunately, GSM technology itself restricts the ability to modify the sender address for messages originating from mobile networks (MO - Mobile Originated). This means the phone number associated with the SIM card in your GSM modem will always be displayed as the sender.
- IP SMS and Sender Address Flexibility: If you switch to an IP SMS connection (SMPP, CIMD, UCP), you gain greater control. These connections enable the creation of Mobile Terminated (MT) messages, where the sender address can be customized.
Can I send SMS messages through more than one service providers?
Ozeki SMS Gateway empowers you to leverage the strengths of multiple service providers, enhancing your communication reach and reliability. Here's how it works:
- Multiple Connections, Seamless Integration: Depending on your license, you can install connections for several service providers simultaneously. This allows you to distribute message traffic or utilize specific providers based on factors like cost, coverage, or message type.
- Intelligent Routing for Optimized Delivery: Ozeki boasts a robust routing mechanism. You can define outgoing routes within your applications, enabling them to intelligently select the most suitable service provider for each message based on your criteria.
- Centralized Routing Management: Alternatively, you can utilize the comprehensive routing table built into the SMS gateway itself. This central hub allows you to define routing rules for all your applications, ensuring efficient and targeted message delivery.
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