# Channels

The **Channels section** in the Mercuri dashboard allows you to view, manage, and customize all your **SMS** and **WhatsApp** business numbers. 

This is where you onboard a new WhatsApp/SMS number and can also enable messaging automation features like **Opt-In**, **Opt-Out**, and **Auto Response** for these numbers, ensuring seamless communication with your customers.

### <mark style="color:blue;">Dashboard Elements Explained</mark>

1. **Onboard a new number button :**&#x20;

* In the top-right corner of the dashboard, you can see the **“Onboard New Number”** button. This button allows you to add a **WhatsApp** or **SMS** number for your business.
* When you click on it, you’ll be redirected to a page where you can select the **communication channel** you want to proceed with.

For detailed onboarding steps, refer to the following links:

* \[[WhatsApp Onboarding Guide](/communication-channels/whatsapp-integration/onboarding-on-whatsapp-business-1.md)]
* \[[SMS Onboarding Guide](/communication-channels/sms-integration/getting-started-with-tfn.md)]

***

2. **Channel Tabs (SMS | WhatsApp)**

   At the top of the page, you can switch between **SMS** and **WhatsApp** channels.

   * Each tab displays the numbers and configurations specific to that platform. Example: The **SMS** tab shows all active SMS numbers.

   **SMS Channel**

* Under the **SMS channel**, you can view all the numbers associated with your SMS account, along with their details and configuration settings.&#x20;

Each business number associated displays the following details:

| Element           | Description                                                                                                                                                   |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Provider**      | The service provider used to connect your messaging channel.                                                                                                  |
| **Phone Number**  | The registered business number used for messaging. You can copy this number and its phone number ID using the copy icon beside it.                            |
| **App**           | Indicates the application connected to the number. You can also edit the app configuration using the pencil icon.                                             |
| **Opt-In**        | Displays the message customers receive when they subscribe to your service. The status (Active/Inactive) indicates whether this feature is currently enabled. |
| **Opt-Out**       | Displays the message sent to customers who choose to unsubscribe. The status (Active/Inactive) indicates whether this setting is live.                        |
| **Auto Response** | Shows the automatic message sent when a customer contacts your business. You can enable or edit this feature using the settings icon (⚙️).                    |
| **Actions**       | The gear (⚙️) icon under this column allows you to configure or edit features such as *Opt-In/Opt-Out* messages and *Auto Response*.                          |


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