# What is two-way messaging?

> Two-way messaging is SMS (or another channel) that both sends to and receives replies from a recipient, so a customer can text back to confirm, opt out, ask a question, or trigger an action. It requires a number capable of receiving inbound messages — a long code, short code, or toll-free number — and a webhook to route replies into your application in real time.

- Canonical URL: https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-two-way-messaging
- Language: en
- Last reviewed: 2026-07-22
- Publisher: BroadNet (https://www.broadnet.me)

## How replies reach you

When a customer replies, the inbound (mobile-originated) message is delivered to your application through a webhook, so you can process confirmations, keywords, and STOP requests programmatically. See /answers/what-is-mo-vs-mt and /answers/what-is-a-messaging-webhook.

## What number you need

Two-way traffic needs a number that can receive: a long code or toll-free number for lower volume, or a short code for high-throughput keyword campaigns. A one-way alphanumeric sender ID cannot receive replies. See /answers/what-is-long-code and /answers/what-is-short-code.

## What it enables

Appointment confirmations, delivery rescheduling, fraud-alert YES/NO responses, surveys, and conversational support all depend on two-way messaging. See /answers/sms-for-appointment-reminders and /products/two-way-sms.

## Keep it compliant

Always honour STOP and opt-out through the reply channel, and keep records of consent. See /answers/what-is-dnc and /answers/sms-compliance-checklist.

## Related

- [All answers](https://www.broadnet.me/answers)
- [Glossary](https://www.broadnet.me/answers)
- [MO vs MT — what's the difference?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-mo-vs-mt)
- [What is an SMS survey?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-sms-survey)
- [What is a messaging webhook?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-a-messaging-webhook)
- [What is a long code?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-long-code)
- [What is an SMS short code?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-short-code)
- [How do you use SMS for appointment reminders?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/sms-for-appointment-reminders)
- [Two-way SMS](https://www.broadnet.me/products/two-way-sms)