What Payment gateway means
Gateways such as Stripe, PayPal and Shopify Payments handle the sensitive part of checkout. Using a reputable hosted gateway keeps card data off your servers, which greatly reduces your security and PCI burden. Fees and features vary, so check current pricing.
Why it matters for your website
The gateway affects how smoothly customers can pay, which methods you accept and how much you pay in fees. A clunky or untrusted checkout can make shoppers abandon their carts. Using a reputable gateway also keeps card data off your server, which lowers your security burden.
Example
A candle maker's online store uses a gateway that supports cards and digital wallets. Shoppers on phones can pay with a tap instead of typing card numbers.
Tips
- Compare fees, payout timing and supported payment methods before choosing a gateway.
- Offer digital wallets to make mobile checkout faster.
- Turn on fraud tools and address verification your gateway provides.
Common mistakes
- Storing card numbers on your own server or in email.
- Choosing a gateway without checking that it integrates with your ecommerce platform.
Questions about Payment gateway
What is Payment gateway?
The service that securely sends a customer's payment details for approval and returns the result to your store.
What is the difference between a payment gateway and a payment processor?
The gateway securely passes payment details from your checkout. The processor moves the transaction through the card networks and banks. Many providers offer both together.
Can I use more than one payment gateway?
Yes. Many stores offer a main card gateway plus options like PayPal or buy now, pay later services. Just keep checkout simple and not cluttered.
