SMS-C (operator's server)

The SMS-C is the operator server that receives, holds and then re-sends SMS as long as the recipient is unreachable.

In brief

The SMS-C is the operator server that receives, holds and then re-sends SMS as long as the recipient is unreachable.

Going deeper

The SMS-C (Short Message Service Centre) is the centrepiece of delivery. Every SMS is entrusted to it before reaching its recipient: never do two phones talk to each other directly.

Its operation follows « store and forward »: if the targeted device is switched off or off-network, the message is set aside and delivery attempts repeat for a validity period set by the operator, often 24 to 72 hours. It's this mechanism that guarantees a sent SMS ends up arriving.

Send a free SMS FAQ Blog

Related concepts

Browse every concept

Delivery report (DLR)The delivery report, or DLR, is the notice returned by the network stating whether an SMS indeed reached the targeted phone.SMS gatewayAn SMS gateway is the service that connects a website or an application to the carrier network, injecting messages into it without a SIM card.

Free SMS · No sign-up · To France

Ready to send your free SMS?

One hundred percent free, no sign-up, no ads and no limits. Write your message, enter the mobile number, confirm: it's sent in seconds.

Send a free SMS