DTS Web Solutions asked:


Many of us have used credit cards to make purchases online. It is important to understand how the online credit card processing works, how having a merchant account can enhance your chances of increasing sales, and the importance of SSL certificates.

Merchant Accounts:



Increase sales: According to Visa International, of every $100.00 spent by consumers, nearly $40.00 is in a form other than cash or check. Plus, the average credit card purchase is considerably larger than cash. A Merchant Account is the quick, easy way for these customers to pay.



 



Get paid, fast: Make the move to credit card transactions and start receiving payment within 24-72 hours.





 



Increase credibility! A merchant account means you’ve passed the approval process necessary to accept credit cards. It gives your customers confidence.





 



Cut paperwork! Why spend your valuable time processing checks? Instead, have proceeds from all your business’ transactions deposited directly into your banking account.



 



Reduce risk! Automate your transactions and take any hassle out of your sales. Visitors to your site want the convenience, flexibility and security that credit cards offer. They want to spend!



 

The followinng is a brief description of how the process works:

1. Customer’s Credit Card:

Provides the funds needed for the transaction. All authorized cards are processed in the same way, regardless if they are credit or debit.

 

2. Shopping Cart:

Serves as a collection point for necessary information including credit card data, product type and quantity, shipping information and more.

 

3. Gateway:

Securely transfers encrypted data from the Shopping Cart to the Merchant account, screens for fraud and authorizes the transaction.

 

4. Internet Merchant Account (Processor):

Verifies the credit/debit account for the necessary funds. Approved transactions are processed and the funds are placed in a Checking Account.





5. Checking Account:

Receives and holds the money gained from approved online sales. Funds can be withdrawn at any time through an ATM or at your local bank.

 

The Importance of SSL Certificates:

People are getting smart about online security. More and more of them are looking for the padlock icon and “https” prefix in the address bar of their browser before submitting personal information online. If your Web site doesn’t have an SSL Certificate, visitors may leave before making a purchase, creating an account or even signing up for a newsletter.

 

About the Author

DTS Web Solutions is a Low Cost Domain and Hosting Company that provides a variety of services ranging from Domain names to hosting, SSL Certificates, and other high quality business solutions. For more information visit:http://www.dtswebsolutions.com/

 





GARLAND