How to Send SMS Messages in Python Using SMPP Libraries

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What will you learn?

In this tutorial, you will learn how to send SMS messages using the Short Message Peer-to-Peer (SMPP) protocol in Python. By the end of this guide, you will be able to integrate SMS sending capabilities into your Python applications effectively.

Introduction to Problem and Solution

Sending SMS messages programmatically can greatly enhance user engagement in various applications. One efficient way to achieve this is by utilizing the SMPP protocol for exchanging SMS messages between service centers and external entities. To implement this functionality in Python, we can leverage libraries like smpplib. This tutorial aims to simplify the process by breaking down each step involved in sending an SMS message using smpplib or similar libraries.

Here are the key steps we will cover: 1. Installing the necessary library. 2. Setting up a basic configuration for establishing a connection with an SMSC. 3. Crafting and dispatching an SMS message.

By following these steps, you will have a solid foundation for incorporating text messaging features into your applications seamlessly.

Code

import smpplib.client
import smpplib.gsm
import smpplib.consts

def send_sms(destination_address, message):
    client = smpplib.client.Client('example.smpp.server.com', SOME_PORT_NUMBER)

    # Bind client - Replace 'USERNAME' and 'PASSWORD' with actual values
    client.connect()
    client.bind_transmitter(system_id='USERNAME', password='PASSWORD')

    parts, encoding_flag = smpplib.gsm.make_parts(message)

    for part in parts:
        pdu = client.send_message(
            source_addr_ton=smpplib.consts.SMPP_TON_INTL,
            source_addr_npi=smptplib.consts.SMPP_NPI_ISDN,
            source_addr='SENDER_NUMBER',

            dest_addr_ton=smpplib.consts.SMPP_TON_INTL,
            dest_addr_npi=smppibl.consts.SMPP_NPI_ISDN,
            destination_addr=destination_address,

            short_message=part,
            data_coding=encoding_flag,
            esm_class=smptplib.consts.SM_STORE_AND_FORWARD,

            registered_delivery=True,
        )

    client.unbind()

# Copyright PHD

Explanation

The code snippet provided above demonstrates how to send an SMS message using the smpplib library:

  • Establishing Connection: Create a new instance of Client from smpplib.client, providing the server address and port number.

  • Authentication: Bind the session as a transmitter by replacing placeholders with actual credentials.

  • Message Preparation: Prepare the message and handle multi-part messages if needed.

  • Sending Message: Send each part of the message while setting important parameters such as recipient’s number and sender information.

  • Unbinding Session: Ensure graceful closure by unbinding from the server after sending all parts of the message.

This method offers a straightforward approach to integrating SMS functionality in your application efficiently.

  1. What is SMPP?

  2. SMPP stands for Short Message Peer-to-Peer Protocol used for exchanging text messages between service centers and external entities.

  3. Can I test my implementation without access to an actual SMSC?

  4. Yes, simulator tools mimic real-world SMSC environments, allowing developers to test implementations locally before deployment.

  5. Do I need special permissions from mobile carriers?

  6. Interaction typically occurs directly with an SMSC provider; no separate permissions are usually required, but proper credentials are necessary.

  7. Are there limitations on sending bulk texts?

  8. Limits may vary based on agreements with service providers regarding throughput rates or maximum text allowances per day/month.

  9. Is receiving delivery reports possible?

  10. Yes, providers often support delivery reports when setting registered_delivery=True.

Conclusion

In conclusion, leveraging Python libraries like smpplib enables seamless integration of SMS messaging capabilities into your applications. By following this guide, you now possess the knowledge required to implement SMS functionality effectively using the SMPP protocol. Enhance user engagement and communication within your applications through programmatically sending SMS messages in Python!

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