# Overview

Using 9bits SMS service allows you to send SMS messages to one or multiple customers with a few easy steps. This allows for timely and cost-efficient communications.

There are two methods by which you can send SMS messages:

* [SMS REST API](/messaging/a2p-sms/rest-api.md)
* [ENHANCED SMPP Service](/messaging/a2p-sms/smpp.md)

## SMS REST API

This API has a number of applications that help you automate communications, organize your customer data, and customize messages in order to provide your customers with a more personal interaction experience.

Using this API, you can:

* [Send SMS messages](/messaging/a2p-sms/start-sending-a2p-sms.md) to a single recipient or in a batch, and view any corresponding API callbacks
* Create and manage groups, which allows for easy recipient organization and streamlined API calls
* [Review delivery reports](/messaging/a2p-sms/rest-api/delivery-reports.md) which can provide important context into how you are reaching your customers

The SMS rest API enables all of the above through a single connection.

{% content-ref url="/pages/rbYz3rVkH39PyhnaEMDu" %}
[REST API](/messaging/a2p-sms/rest-api.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## Enhanced SMPP Service

You can send and receive messages with a granular level of control, and low latency, when using 9bits Enganced SMPP Service. SMPP is a traditional telecoms protocol for the submission of bulk SMS, you can learn more at [smpp.org](https://smpp.org/).

{% hint style="info" %}
In order to use the 9bits Enhanced SMPP Service, you must first reach out to 9bits [support team](mailto:support@9bitsng.com)
{% endhint %}


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