> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://whatsapp.desk360.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://whatsapp.desk360.com/virtual-number-setup-and-configuration.md).

# Virtual Number Setup and Configuration

This document explains how to use the virtual number selection feature during the WhatsApp Business API (WABA) setup process.

### Why Virtual Number?

The virtual number feature provides the following advantages:

* Does not require a physical SIM card.
* Accelerates the WABA setup process.
* Offers a low entry barrier for users who want to try the platform.

### Step-by-Step Usage

#### 1) Number Selection Screen

During the WABA setup process, all users encounter the following screen.

* When the "Click to Purchase Number" button is pressed, the number addition field opens.

#### 2) Number Display

The following fields are located within the relevant area:

* **Phone Number:** An automatic number is displayed to the user.
* **Refresh button:** When clicked, a random new number is displayed to the user.
* **"I Will Choose My Own Number"** button: Allows the user to select their own number.
* Currently, only US-compatible phone numbers can be obtained.

#### 3) Number Selection and Summary Screen

When the "Select Number" button is clicked, the user is directed to a summary screen.

* The selected number is displayed here.
* The selected number is reserved for the user for 15 minutes. If the user waits more than 15 minutes on this screen, the number reservation will be cancelled.

#### 4) Completing the Setup

After clicking the "Complete" button:

* An OTP (verification code) is received from Meta via SMS in the background.
* The code is automatically verified.
* The user proceeds to the "Setup Completing" screen, which is the final step of the setup.