> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://documentation.crossengage.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://documentation.crossengage.io/data-and-engagement-platform/messages/integrations/channels/sms/twilio/set-up-a-twilio-account.md).

# Set up a Twilio Account

Before you begin, you will need the following:

* Paid Twilio Account with an associated phone number (Trial accounts are not supported)
* CrossEngage Account
* User data that includes a phone number

## Buying a Number

{% hint style="warning" %}
The following is an example of how to buy a number. If you want to be sure that you do this correctly, contact Twilio or your account manager for support.
{% endhint %}

You need to have at least one phone number associated with Twilio to use your Twilio account with CrossEngage. To buy a number, follow the steps below:

* [Log in](https://www.twilio.com/login) to your Twilio account.
* In the Account Info section, click on View all Numbers.

<figure><img src="/files/KM64nHa0U2OIig72hTS0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* You can buy a number from Twilio by clicking on the Buy a Number button and choosing a number to buy.

<figure><img src="/files/qa5fcsu4LuboAVA6fyIP" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Enable Certificate Validation

We recommend enabling certificate validation as it serves as an additional security measure. Have a look at the [Security Update On SSL Certificate Validation](https://www.twilio.com/blog/2016/02/security-update-on-ssl-certificate-validation.html) blog post to learn more.

To enable SSL Certificate Validation, follow the steps below:

* [Log in](https://www.twilio.com/login) to your Twilio account.
* In the top right corner of the screen, open the Account menu and choose General Settings.
* In the "General settings" section, scroll down to the "SSL Certificate Validation" heading and click `ENABLED`.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/jzTGp8Vqm8t8U8emL4lW" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Configure user attributes

We suggest you to use the "traits.phone" user attribute when using Twilio. The user attribute should include a phone number formatted according to the E.164 specification. For example: +4917612345678. [This Twilio article](https://support.twilio.com/hc/en-us/articles/223183008-Formatting-International-Phone-Numbers) about formatting international phone numbers goes into more detail.