Phone System · 1 min read
Number Hosting for Hosted Messaging
What number hosting is
Number hosting (hosted SMS) turns on texting through FunnelStreams for an eligible number that stays owned by, and voice-enabled with, your current carrier. Your carrier keeps handling calls; texts go through your sub-account after approval.
Hosting doesn't replace messaging compliance. US local numbers still need A2P 10DLC registration, and toll-free numbers need toll-free verification.
Hosting vs. porting
| | Number hosting | Porting | | --- | --- | --- | | Number ownership | Stays with your carrier | Moves to the new service | | Voice calls | Stay with your carrier | Move with the number | | SMS/MMS | Handled here after approval | Handled here after the port | | Best for | Keeping your carrier for voice and texting from the platform | Moving the number completely |
Before you start
- Confirm the number type is supported (landlines and some VoIP numbers can be hosted; mobile numbers usually can't).
- Make sure texting isn't already enabled for the number with another messaging service, or ask that provider to release it.
- Have the account holder's details and an authorized signer ready for the letter of authorization.
Setup steps
- Request hosting for the number and enter the carrier account details.
- Sign the letter of authorization.
- Complete any verification call or code sent to the number.
- After approval, link the number to your A2P campaign or toll-free verification.
After activation
Test sending and receiving texts. Calls still ring through your current carrier.