Advantages of SMPP over HTTP, and vice versa: what should a business choose for mass SMS messaging

For years, the SMPP API has been the dominant protocol for sending SMS messages. But progress does not stand still, and providers prefer to use modern technologies that provide the best result in a short period.

SMPP has been replaced by the HTTP API. Find out what is the difference between the two technologies and which one is better for your company.

SMPP vs HTTP: what is the difference

First, let's figure out the terminology.

An API is an application programming interface that provides a set of functions and methods that allow programs to communicate and take advantage of each other's capabilities. In fact, this is a kind of intermediary between programs.

Short Message Peer-to-Peer Protocol is a standard peer-to-peer short message protocol. Because it is considered universal and supports non-GSM protocols, SMS is one of the most commonly used communication technologies.

HTTP is a hypertext transfer protocol that works in conjunction with an API. It uses hypertext to communicate between systems, allowing larger data to be transmitted over longer distances.

Consider the criteria for choosing a protocol.

Speed

One of the main advantages of the SMPP API is fast message delivery. The protocol is connected directly to the server, which means it does not require username and password verification.

Bidirectional exchange

Both protocols will allow the company to set up a two-way SMS exchange with the user. However, setting up a peer-to-peer protocol is more complex and takes more time.

Flexibility

The HTTP API functions, like the SMPP API, are very flexible. The protocols support a wide range of message types and encoding schemes, which makes it possible to exchange Unicode text, binary notifications and SMS.

Traffic volume

The SMPP API is capable of passing up to 1,000 messages per second, while the HTTP API of the SMS gateway provider only allows sending up to 100 text SMS.

Price

The HTTP API protocol tools are accessible and easy to use. They do not require any additional investment.

In contrast, building your own SMPP API can take several months and require a development team, which means more funding.

It's impossible to say specifically which protocol is better. The choice between SMPP and HTTP falls entirely on the shoulders of the client and depends on the scale and requirements of the business. For example, SMPP can send messages from a large number of users simultaneously over a TCP connection. Therefore, it is relevant for large enterprises.

The HTTP API is suitable for individuals, small and medium-sized businesses. It is easier to understand and requires less resources.

We at Decision Telecom use HTTPS with a passkey for AP authorization, and SMPP for high-volume SMS traffic. Contact our manager to get an API key and connection data via SMPP protocol.