An SMS gateway API (application programming interface) is a programming interface that allows software like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) to communicate with the SMS gateway digitally and provide data. This is useful for importing customer databases and marketing campaign lists.
Individuals and businesses that want to take advantage of SMS messaging campaigns should seek an easy SMS gateway platform such as 160.com.au. We have a convenient API that allows seamless integration with your existing systems, from CRM to email and more.
Understanding API’s
An easy-to-grasp example of how an API works is a rideshare app. Why would a rideshare app spend billions making a highly accurate map for its application when Google Maps already exists? It just uses Google Maps for all its mapping needs via an API. Here is how it works:
You give your location and input the destination in the app. The rideshare app connects to Google Maps API, verifies your location and destination, and says, “Our customer is here, find one of our drivers nearby.” The Google Maps API responds with the relevant data and provides real-time tracking of the driver’s location.
The rideshare app doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel, and user experience is elevated–all thanks to API.
How Is This Relevant to SMS Messaging?
With the help of an SMS gateway API, CRM customer databases can be shared with the SMS gateway provider. Once the systems are integrated, vast amounts of data can be shared instantly. This integration makes organising marketing campaigns or appointment reminders a snap.
By automating these processes, businesses can save significant amounts of time and money. Whether it’s one SMS message or one million, the API doesn’t become overwhelmed. It can handle tens of thousands of requests every second with exceptional accuracy.
The API isn’t just one-way. The API can send out a string of data to your CRM system so incoming SMS messages can be logged within the CRM system, as well. All of this happens autonomously without any input from the user.
Security with SMS Gateway APIs
All sorts of personally identifiable data may be shared through SMS messages. Therefore, when connecting any app to another through an API, secure connections are critical.
This is accomplished via three layers:
The API Key
This is a secret code that allows access to the API while identifying it with a particular user. In our Google Maps example, the key identifies the sender of the API request so they can be billed appropriately. It should be noted that not all APIs cost money, and many are completely free.
SMS Gateway Code
This allows users access to the SMS gateway so they can send and receive messages. Much like the API key, this is done for billing purposes.
You might be wondering how to find an SMS gateway code. As soon as you sign up for a service like 160.com.au’s SMS gateway, we’ll provide you with a code.
Encryption and Secure Data Storage
High-level encryption algorithms similar to what is used in banking are what protect the databases and SMS messages themselves. Additionally, all of 160.com.au’s data is stored in secure data centres within Australian borders, as offshore cloud storage would be insufficient to meet the needs of our customers.
Gain Access to Our API Today
Businesses that want to try our SMS services shouldn’t worry about the cost of an SMS gateway just yet. We offer free messaging credits to trial users so they can see how easy the system is to use.
Once you’re ready to take the next step, our pricing plans are some of the most affordable on the market–especially when you purchase one of our bulk messaging plans. Find the one that suits your business best and start messaging today!