SMS
In a computer and telecommunications context, SMS can refer to two main things: Short Message Service, the system for sending text messages, or Systems Management Server, a Microsoft software tool for IT administrators. Short Message Service (SMS) is a text-messaging protocol on mobile networks that allows users to send short text messages up to 160 characters, while Systems Management Server (SMS) was a product for managing Windows-based computers.
Short Message Service (SMS)
Function: A service that allows users to send and receive short text messages on most telephone and mobile device systems.
Technology: Uses standardized protocols to exchange text messages over the cellular network, not the internet.
Capacity: A standard SMS message can contain up to 160 characters (including spaces and punctuation).
Related terms:
MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service): An extension of SMS that allows for the sending of multimedia content like pictures, videos, and audio.
SMS gateway: An intermediary service that allows users to send SMS messages from a computer or other device.
Systems Management Server (SMS)
Function: A now-obsolete software product from Microsoft used by IT administrators to manage and deploy software to a large number of Windows-based computers.
Context: Primarily used in an IT administration and enterprise environment, it is a distinct term from the telecommunication-related Short Message Service
©2025 PC Anatomy | 