Maximizing E-commerce Success: The Complete Guide to Payment Gateway Integration

Add a payment gateway to your website to accept secure online payments. Pick the right provider, set up a merchant account, install the payment software, and test it before going live.

What is payment gateway integration?

Payment gateway integration means adding a payment service to a website or POS system so customers can make secure online payments. Payment gateways are third-party providers that help move money between the customer and the business. While the process can be a bit complicated, it's crucial for businesses that want to accept online payments.

Integrating Secure Payment Options on Your Website

Step 1 - Pick a Payment Gateway

The first step to adding a payment gateway to your website is to choose a provider. When picking a payment gateway, keep these factors in mind.

• Security

The payment gateway must have strong security measures to protect customer data.

• Compatibility

It should work well with your website's platform and technology.

• Transaction Fees

Look for a gateway with reasonable fees that fit your budget.

• User Experience

It should offer an easy and smooth experience for both you and your customers.

Step 2 - Sign Up for an Account

After choosing a payment gateway provider, the next step is to create an account. You’ll need to provide basic personal and business information, like your name, email, business name, and tax ID.

During sign-up, you'll also agree to the provider's terms and conditions, which will include details about fees and service requirements.

Step 3 - Get API Keys

After setting up an account with the payment gateway provider, you'll receive API keys, which allow your website to connect with the payment gateway. API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of tools that let different software systems work together. The API keys usually include a public key for front-end interactions and a secret key for server-side use. These keys help secure sensitive data, like customer credit card information, by encrypting and decrypting it during transactions.

Step 4 - Connect the Payment Gateway

After getting your API keys, the next step is to connect the payment gateway to your website. The steps may vary based on your website's platform and technology, but generally, you’ll need to add the necessary code to your checkout page or shopping cart.

To integrate the payment gateway, you will usually need to:

Add a Payment Form

Include a form to collect payment details, like credit card info or PayPal login. Make sure the form matches your website’s design for a smooth customer experience.

Add JavaScript Code

Add JavaScript code to your website’s checkout page or shopping cart. This code connects the payment form to the payment gateway’s API. It usually uses a public API key to secure and send the customer's payment details to the payment gateway.

Add Server-Side Code

Add code to your website’s back-end to handle responses from the payment gateway. This code uses a secret API key to decrypt and process payment information.

Certification processes can vary based on the certification authority and type. Payment device manufacturers should check with the certification authority to follow the correct procedures and requirements.

Step 5 - Test Transactions

Before making your payment gateway live, make sure to test it thoroughly to check that everything works properly. Most providers offer a test mode or sandbox environment where you can run transactions without charging real credit cards.

To test your payment gateway integration, you should:

Test the Payment Process

Check the whole payment process from beginning to end. This includes filling out the payment form, submitting it, and getting a response from the payment gateway.

Test Various Scenarios

Check the payment gateway integration by testing different situations, like using different credit card types or entering invalid credit card details.

The EverExpanse team can help you customize and integrate your payment gateway, making sure it's done on time.