> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.smstools.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
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# How can I receive text messages?

You can receive messages bij opting for an inbox like a Virtual Mobile number or Shortcode keyword

**1. VMN (Virtual Mobile Number)**
A VMN is a virtual SMS number which allows you to send and receive SMS messages. This method is suitable to perform two-way SMS communication.

*  Send and receive messages via the same phone number.
*  Monthly subscription of the VMN number (billed per quarter or year)
*  Inbound messages are free of charges

Go to 'Extra' in the menu , click on 'Virtual Mobile Number'

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/7/b/b/7/7bb7f1f7a2418c00/image_7jkt0g.png)


All available numbers will be shown in a list. Choose one of the available virtual numbers by clicking on 'Purchase number'.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/7/b/b/7/7bb7f1f7a2418c00/image_wxi9gf.png)


**2 Shortcode keyword** 
|||
This option is not available for every country*

With a shortcode keyword you can receive inbound messages. For example: SMS 'keyword + message' to 1234 (shortcode) which will appear in your inbox.

*  Only available for inbound messages
*  Monthly subscription of the shortcode keyword (min. 3 months)
*  We charge for every delivered SMS message.

Go to 'Inbox' (1) in the menu on your right side, 'Shortcode keyword', 'More info' (2)

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/7bb7f1f7a2418c00/shortkode-keyword_pkrcgh.jpg)

Contact Sales and you will be contacted by Smstools.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/7bb7f1f7a2418c00/contact-sales_jkvz10.jpg)


|| *shortcode keyword available for the following countries: Belgium, The Netherlands, France, USA.