Introduction
In the new digital economy, businesses depend on the flawless functioning of a payment system that enables them to make online transactions. Nevertheless, as they create an online payment system, the business people are presented with two most significant terms: payment gateways and payment processors. Thus, understanding the difference between the decoded information, the payment gateway, and another payment processor entity is essential for the best rapid payment gateways that would greatly benefit the company. This post is where we'll break down the difference between payment gateway and payment processor, how they work, and which is the best choice for your business.
What is a Payment Gateway?
A payment gateway is a convenient tool that encrypts the data involved in a money transfer to be sent up to acquiring bank clearance. Furthermore, a payment gateway also acts as the middleman between the customer and the merchant by promoting their safety and security, such that they can purchase by getting it encrypted and safeguarded against fraud by credit card information.
Role of Payment Gateways in Online Transactions:
- Encrypt and send payment information safely. Approve operations using fraud detection methods.
- Payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, digital wallets, etc.
- Allow clients to buy online things by supplying a quick and smooth checkout.
- Examples of Payment Gateways: PayPal, Stripe, and TransFi's Payment Collections solution.
What is a Payment Processor?
A payment processor is the firm responsible for ensuring that the money is successfully transferred from the customer's account to the vendor's. Following the payment gateway's collection and sending of payment data, the processor contacts the issuing bank to get the transaction approved and concluded.
How Payment Processors Process Transactions:
- The client sends a payment through the online store.
- The payment gateway gathers and encrypts the payment data.
- The payment processor contacts the card network (Visa, Mastercard, etc.).
- The issuing bank approves or declines the payment.
- The processor sends the funds to the merchant's account.
- Examples of Payment Processors are WorldPay, Adyen, and TransFi's Payouts solution.
Do You Need a Payment Gateway as well as a Payment Processor?
Indeed, if you are a company that allows online payments, a payment gateway and a payment processor are necessary. The payment gateway is the webpage where the customers make their necessary input on payment. In contrast, the payment processor initiates payment through a merchant service provider. However, some of those incomes, processed, are bundled payment solutions from a company like TransFi, which include payment gateways and processing services and add a wrinkle to the equation of receiving a customer's payment.
“When payment gateways and processors work in silos, businesses suffer. TransFi BizPay unifies both functions into a single intelligent platform—streamlining operations, improving success rates, and enhancing control.” - Rahul Sahni, COO & CPO TransFi
Selecting the Right Payment Solution for Your Business
In case you are about to choose a payment solution, remember to bear in mind the following components:
- Security & Compliance: Choose a payment gateway that is PCI-DSS compliant and provides extra encryption processes for security. Check for fraud prevention and data encryption abilities.
- Transaction Fees: Rate the payment processing fees which are in effect for different providers. Evaluate the costs associated with onboarding, monthly subscriptions, and per-transaction fees.
- Integration & Compatibility: Decide whether you want a hosted or an integrated payment gateway. Make sure it is compatible with your e-commerce platform or POS system.
- Multi-Currency Support: If you are a multi-national company, be sure they provide you with a global payment gateway that supports multiple currencies.
- Scalability & Customer Experience: Choose a provider that grows with your company. Check that the checkout process is smooth and user-friendly.
TransFi: Your Single-Stop Payment Solution
The solution you need is a payment system that combines a collection and payout system into one integrated payment solution, which is facilitated by TransFi, a highly secure, cost-effective, and reliable platform.
- TransFi Collections: It is a safe and easy-to-use payment gateway that allows businesses to accept payments worldwide through secure online transactions.
- TransFi Payouts: A powerful payment processor that transfers funds quickly and instantly. With TransFi, you will have a smooth, end-to-end payment process that eliminates concerns and maximizes productivity.
Also Read: Chargeback vs Refund: The Main Differences and What This Means for You
Conclusion
The right payment system is indispensable if the business requires different payment options. Knowing the difference between the payment gateway and the payment processor is necessary for all companies willing to improve their system. While a payment gateway handles the secure transactions, a payment processor is concerned with securing the transfer of funds. Companies need both for smooth operation, and products like TransFi may offer an end-to-end payment system that fastens transactions and champions security.
FAQs
- Can a payment gateway work without a payment processor?
- No, the payment gateway only sends payment information. The payment processor completes the transaction.
- What are the best payment gateways and processors for international companies?
- Some of the most deserving offerings are TransFi, Stripe, PayPal, and WorldPay. This depends on your requirements.
- What are the costs of payment processors and gateways?
- The costs are based on the provider, type of transaction, and location. It's essential to compare prices before picking someone for the service.
- What are the main differences between a merchant account and a payment gateway?
- A payment gateway is a service that facilitates data transfer between merchants and their acquiring banks. On the other hand, the merchant account stores the funds until they are transferred into your business bank account.
- Can TransFi handle payment processing and payment gateway as well?
- Yes. TransFi provides a market-leading solution. It is a premier payment processor and collection service provider that expedites the transaction process through its businesses. It eliminates the stresses of hiring a separate service for each. It is a one-stop solution for secure payment and collection.
Table of Contents
Suggested Article
Explore our products

Make global payments at the speed of a click

Accept payments, remove borders.

Unlock Seamless Digital Currency Transactions Anywhere