# Install SMS Bot

### 📌 Overview

BotPenguin allows you to deploy your chatbot on **SMS**, enabling automated conversations with users directly through text messages—no internet-based apps required.

SMS bots are ideal for reaching users on any mobile device and are commonly used for alerts, support, reminders, and lead engagement.

***

### 🔧 SMS Installation Methods

BotPenguin supports **two methods** to install and run an SMS chatbot:

#### **1. SMS Chatbot (Twilio)**

Install your SMS chatbot using **Twilio**, a globally trusted cloud communications platform.

**Best for:**

* Businesses needing global SMS coverage
* Custom phone numbers and advanced messaging control
* Secure credential-based setup

**Key Highlights**

* Uses a Twilio phone number
* Supports two-way SMS communication
* Works across regions supported by Twilio
* Seamlessly integrates with BotPenguin bot logic

👉 Recommended for users already using or planning to use Twilio.

***

#### **2. SMS Chatbot (Romulus)**

Install your SMS chatbot using **Romulus**, a simplified SMS delivery method supported by BotPenguin.

**Best for:**

* Faster setup with minimal configuration
* Users looking for an easier SMS installation flow
* Domestic or limited-region SMS use cases

**Key Highlights**

* Simplified onboarding
* No complex credential handling
* Ideal for quick SMS bot deployment

👉 Recommended for users who want a straightforward SMS setup.

***

### 🚀 What You Can Do with SMS Bots

* Send and receive automated SMS replies
* Handle customer queries over text messages
* Share alerts, confirmations, and reminders
* Capture leads via SMS conversations
* Run bot flows without requiring internet apps

***

### 🌍 Why Choose SMS Automation?

📱 Reach users on any mobile phone\
⚡ Instant message delivery\
🔁 Two-way conversational automation\
🌍 Works across supported regions\
🧩 Fully powered by your existing BotPenguin bot logic

***

### 🧭 Getting Started

Choose the SMS installation method that best fits your needs:

* **Twilio** for global scalability and control
* **Romulus** for quick and simple SMS deployment

Once installed, your SMS bot will start handling conversations automatically.

***

### FAQs

<details>

<summary>What is the difference between Twilio and Romulus?</summary>

**Twilio** offers global SMS coverage, advanced controls, and is ideal for businesses needing scalability and customization.

**Romulus** provides a simpler setup with minimal configuration and is best for quick SMS bot deployment.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do I need a Twilio account to install an SMS bot?</summary>

Yes, a Twilio account is required **only if you choose the Twilio method**. You will need your Twilio **Account SID**, **Auth Token**, and a **Twilio phone number**.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Is a phone number required to run an SMS bot?</summary>

Yes. An SMS bot requires a dedicated phone number to send and receive messages. This number is provided by Twilio or Romulus, depending on the installation method you choose.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I use my existing BotPenguin chatbot for SMS?</summary>

Yes. Once installed, your existing BotPenguin chatbot logic, flows, and AI responses work seamlessly on the SMS channel without needing to rebuild the bot.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I switch between Twilio and Romulus later?</summary>

Yes. You can change your SMS installation method by uninstalling the current setup and installing the SMS bot again using the preferred method.

</details>


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://help.botpenguin.com/bots/sms-bot/install-sms-bot.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.