> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.messageflow.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.messageflow.com/sms/sms-common-settings.md).

# SMS Common settings

The **Common Settings** section is the control center for your SMS infrastructure in MessageFlow. Here you define technical parameters that override all your messages – whether they are marketing campaigns or transactional notifications sent via API.

You will find two key functionalities here:

#### 1. Sender IDs

Here you manage the sender identity – "who" the recipient sees as the message author.

* Brand Name (Alphanumeric): Allows you to display your company name (up to 11 characters) instead of a phone number. This is the standard for one-way marketing communication.
* 2-way Number: If you need to have a dialogue with the customer (receive replies), this is where dedicated 9-digit or 4-digit numbers operate.

{% hint style="info" %}
Note: A 2-way number must first be purchased. The configuration is handled by our Support Team. Please [contact the Sales Team](mailto:sales@messageflow.com) to activate this service.
{% endhint %}

> Start: Every new account automatically has access to the **`SMS TEST`** header, allowing you to check the system's functionality immediately.

#### 2. Shipping countries

A tool for geographic security management. It allows you to block sending to selected countries with a single click, protecting you from costs associated with traffic to markets you do not support. You can freely move countries between the allowed and blocked lists.