Authorize Net: The Best Payment Gateway Solution for Businesses

Explore why Authorize.Net is the best payment gateway for businesses of all sizes. Learn about its features, secure transaction processing, fraud detection tools, and how it supports high-risk merchants, making it a reliable choice for both e-commerce and retail.

Payment gateway Authorize.net is a premier payment gateway that helps businesses securely process transactions. In this article, learn what Authorize.net is, its standout features, and how it can benefit your business.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorize.net is a comprehensive payment gateway offering secure transaction processing for both high-risk and conventional merchants. Upon approval, businesses receive a new merchant account integrated with advanced fraud detection settings and a user-friendly interface.
  • Key features include a merchant dashboard, customizable payment links, recurring payment options for subscriptions, and robust fraud detection tools to enhance security.
  • Authorize.net supports seamless integration with major e-commerce platforms and provides flexible pricing plans to accommodate businesses of all sizes, along with international support for diverse payment needs.

What is Authorize Net?

Authorize.net is a leading payment gateway that facilitates secure and efficient transaction processing for businesses of all sizes. Customers can use their US bank accounts for transactions with Authorize.net, allowing for secure and efficient checkouts through eChecks. Acting as a digital intermediary, it ensures that credit card and electronic check payments are processed securely, integrating with major credit card processors for seamless credit card processing. This makes it an ideal choice for both high-risk and conventional merchants, including brick-and-mortar retailers and e-commerce businesses.

In essence, Authorize.net provides a robust and user-friendly platform that not only handles payment processing but also offers a suite of tools to help manage transactions, customer data, and fraud detection. With every step of the transaction process secured, Authorize.net allows businesses to concentrate on serving their customers and expanding their operations.

Key Features of Authorize Net

Authorize.net is packed with features designed to make payment processing as smooth and secure as possible. As a payment gateway, Authorize.net acts as an intermediary that processes billing information between merchants and banks, playing a crucial role in the transaction flow. From the intuitive merchant dashboard to the flexibility of payment links and the reliability of recurring payments, Authorize.net covers all the bases. Additionally, its advanced fraud detection tools provide an extra layer of security, ensuring that businesses can operate with peace of mind.

Below are the detailed features of Authorize.net.

Merchant Dashboard

The merchant dashboard is the heart of the Authorize.net experience. It allows users to manage their accounts and monitor transactions effectively. Merchants can also manage customer data and transactions through their US bank accounts, simplifying payment processing. The dashboard is easily accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that even those who are not tech-savvy can navigate it with ease. Through the dashboard, merchants can configure user accounts with specific roles and permissions, streamlining transaction management and maintaining security.

The Customer Information Management tools within the dashboard streamline payment processes for returning customers, making repeat transactions quicker and easier. This not only enhances the customer experience but also boosts business efficiency by reducing the time spent managing transactions.

Payment Links

Payment links are one of the standout features of Authorize.net, allowing merchants to send electronic invoices with links to a secure payment page. When setting up a new merchant account, this feature becomes essential for new merchants to streamline their payment processes. This feature enhances the customer experience by enabling quick payments without the need to log in, making the process smooth and hassle-free. Merchants can customize the checkout process, keeping customers on their site during transactions and ensuring a seamless payment experience.

Authorize.net supports various payment methods, including credit card and eCheck payments, offering flexibility for merchants and customers alike. With features like mobile checkout and automated card formatting, Authorize.net makes it easy for customers to complete credit card payments, whether they’re on a desktop or a mobile device.

Recurring Payments

For businesses that rely on subscription models or regular billing cycles, Authorize.net’s recurring payments feature is invaluable. Customers can use their US bank accounts to set up recurring payments through eChecks, simplifying payment processing and ensuring secure transactions. Through its Automated Recurring Billing (ARB) module, businesses can easily set up and manage recurring payments, ensuring a steady revenue stream. Tools like an automatic card updating service help maintain subscription continuity even if customer card details change.

Customers can sign up for subscriptions using either a credit card or eCheck, providing flexibility to meet different preferences. While Authorize.net does not automatically cancel subscriptions after failed payments, it offers features to help manage these situations effectively, reducing the risk of lost revenue.

Fraud Detection Tools and Authorize.net 3D Secure

Security is a top priority for any business, and Authorize.net’s fraud detection tools are designed to provide robust protection against fraudulent activities. Upon approval for a high-risk merchant account, businesses automatically receive configurations for fraud prevention settings along with their new merchant account details. These tools are highly customizable, allowing merchants to set specific rules for blocking or allowing transactions based on their business needs. This flexibility ensures that merchants can tailor their fraud prevention strategies to best suit their operations.

The advanced fraud detection tools significantly enhance the security framework for businesses, reducing the risk of losses due to fraud. Incorporating measures like Address Verification Service (AVS) and Card Code Verification (CCV) safeguards against fraudulent transactions, providing peace of mind for merchants and customers.

High-Risk Merchant Support

Selecting the right payment gateway is crucial for high-risk merchants to ensure compatibility and acceptance of high-risk transactions. Upon approval for a high-risk merchant account, businesses automatically receive configurations for fraud prevention settings along with their new merchant account details. Industries such as CBD merchants and firearms dealers can greatly benefit from Authorize.net’s tailored support for high-risk transactions.

Authorize.net’s sandbox environment allows businesses to thoroughly test their systems before going live, ensuring smooth operations.

Benefits for High-Risk Merchants

High-risk merchants can build a safe and reliable partnership with Authorize.net, benefiting from tailored support specific to their industry needs. This includes high-risk merchant accounts for businesses like CBD and hemp retailers, enabling them to accept credit and debit card payments securely. Additionally, Authorize.net allows customers to use their US bank accounts for transactions, simplifying payment processing and ensuring fast access to funding for merchants. Authorize.net automatically configures common fraud prevention settings like AVS, CCV, and Daily Velocity Filter to support high-risk merchants.

Authorize.net enables high-risk merchants to securely accept card-not-present transactions, which is vital for many online businesses. The recurring payment features further enable high-risk merchants to manage subscription models effectively, reducing their chargeback risks and ensuring a stable revenue stream.

Fees and Pricing Structure

Authorize.net offers a net payment gateway-only plan with a monthly fee of $25 and a per-transaction charge of $0.10. For merchants who prefer an all-in-one processing plan, the cost includes a monthly fee of $25 along with a transaction fee of 2.9% plus $0.30. However, Authorize.net can be much cheaper through Swipesum or a payment consultant with rates on average of .15%.

Swipesum is payment processor agnostic, and can eliminate most fees associated with accepting payments.

One of the critical aspects to consider when choosing a payment gateway is the fees and pricing structure. For new merchants, the new merchant account setup includes specific pricing plans tailored to their needs. For businesses generating over $500,000 annually, Authorize.net offers custom pricing plans. This flexibility in pricing ensures that businesses of all sizes can find a plan that suits their needs. Additional fees, such as a $25 charge for each chargeback initiated by a customer, should also be considered.

Security and PCI Compliance

Security and PCI compliance are non-negotiable for any business handling payment card data. Authorize.net ensures that sensitive customer data is stored securely in a PCI-compliant data center. Customers can use their US bank accounts for transactions with Authorize.net, allowing for secure and efficient checkouts through eChecks. Authorize.net’s Advanced Fraud Detection Suite helps merchants avoid chargebacks and protect against fraudulent activities.

Compliance with the PCI Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) is mandatory for all merchants processing payment card transactions. Authorize.net collaborates with SecurityMetrics, an Approved Scanning Vendor, to assist merchants in validating their compliance and protecting their businesses from data breaches and potential fines.

Security Measures

Authorize.net takes security seriously, providing multiple layers of protection to safeguard sensitive information. Here are some of the key security measures:

  • 3D Secure: Authorize.net supports 3D Secure, a protocol that adds an extra layer of security for online transactions. This protocol requires cardholders to authenticate themselves with their issuing bank, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized transactions. By implementing 3D Secure, businesses can offer their customers an additional level of protection during credit card payments.
  • Encryption: Authorize.net uses industry-standard encryption to protect sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and personal data. This ensures that all data transmitted between the merchant and the payment gateway is secure and cannot be intercepted by malicious parties.
  • Tokenization: To further enhance security, Authorize.net offers tokenization, which replaces sensitive information with a unique token. This reduces the risk of data breaches, as the actual credit card details are not stored or transmitted during transactions.
  • Compliance: Authorize.net is compliant with major industry standards, including PCI DSS, GDPR, and HIPAA. This compliance ensures that businesses using Authorize.net are adhering to the highest security standards, protecting both their customers and their own operations.

API Integration and Testing

For developers, seamless API integration and comprehensive testing are crucial. Authorize.net provides a sandbox testing environment, complete documentation, and 24/7 technical support to ensure a smooth integration process. The sandbox environment operates independently from the live environment, allowing developers to fully test their applications without risking actual funds.

To connect your payment solution to Authorize.net, generate API credentials including an API Login ID and Transaction Key. When setting up a new merchant account, these credentials are essential for new merchants to integrate their payment solutions effectively. This process ensures that every transaction is secure and properly authenticated before going live.

These tools make it easy for developers to integrate payment gateways into their systems confidently.

Testing and Sandbox Mode

Authorize.net provides a sandbox environment for testing and development purposes, allowing merchants to test their integration without affecting live transactions. The sandbox environment simulates the production environment, enabling merchants to test various scenarios, such as successful and failed transactions, in a risk-free setting.

To use the sandbox environment, merchants need to create a sandbox account and obtain separate credentials for testing. Authorize.net provides test card numbers and other testing tools to help merchants simulate different transaction scenarios. This comprehensive testing capability ensures that businesses can confidently launch their payment solutions, knowing they have been thoroughly vetted in a controlled environment.

Website and E-commerce Platform Integrations

Integrating a payment gateway with your e-commerce platform should be straightforward and hassle-free. The payment gateway Authorize.net excels in this area, offering seamless integration with popular platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Wix. For example, integrating Authorize.Net with Shopify requires only a few simple steps, such as creating an account and entering API credentials in the Shopify admin dashboard.

Authorize.net also supports WooCommerce, allowing for easy integration without the need for any coding. By providing ready-to-use payment processing capabilities, Authorize.net enhances the user experience and simplifies the setup process for online retailers.

International and Multi-Account Support

For businesses operating globally, having robust international and multi-account support is essential. Authorize.net primarily allows merchant accounts to be set up in North America, but businesses outside of the U.S. and Canada may need to contact Cybersource for support. This ensures that even international merchants can benefit from Authorize.net’s reliable payment processing services.

Moreover, Authorize.net requires merchants to establish a separate new merchant account for each currency they wish to accept. This feature is crucial for global businesses aiming to streamline payment processes across different regions, ensuring they can cater to a diverse customer base.

Point of Sale (POS) Solutions

Authorize.net provides robust POS integrations that specifically cater to brick-and-mortar stores, enhancing their payment processing capabilities. These POS solutions enable businesses to streamline transactions both in-store and online, offering a cohesive payment experience. Customers can use their US bank accounts for transactions, simplifying payment processing and ensuring fast access to funding for merchants.

A standout feature is the Virtual Point of Sale (VPOS), which allows merchants to accept payments using a computer and card reader. The Virtual Terminal feature also allows for manual processing of transactions, making it particularly useful for mail or telephone orders. These capabilities ensure that businesses can handle various payment scenarios efficiently.

Merchant Account Options

Authorize.net offers various merchant account options to suit different business needs. Merchants can choose from the following options:

  • Combined Payment Gateway and Merchant Account: This option is ideal for merchants who need both a payment gateway and a merchant account. Authorize.net provides a combined solution that includes payment processing, merchant account management, and fraud prevention tools. This all-in-one approach simplifies the setup process and ensures seamless integration of payment processing capabilities.
  • Payment Gateway Only: For merchants who already have a merchant account through their bank, Authorize.net offers a payment gateway solution that integrates with the existing account. This option allows businesses to leverage Authorize.net’s robust payment processing features while maintaining their current banking relationships.

Getting Started with Authorize Net

Getting started with Authorize.net is a straightforward process. Upon approval, businesses receive a new merchant account configured with fraud prevention settings. Activate your Authorize.net account by clicking the link in your welcome email, leading to the identity verification process. The primary account holder must complete the activation, providing accurate business and billing information, including a backup payment method for the net account.

Initially, the account starts in Test Mode, allowing transactions to be processed without actual charges. Once you’re ready, you can switch to Live Mode and begin processing real transactions. This step-by-step process ensures that businesses can set up their payment gateway with confidence and ease.

Transaction Key and Bank Account Setup

To set up a merchant account with Authorize.net, merchants need to provide their transaction key and bank account information. The transaction key is a unique identifier that Authorize.net uses to authenticate transactions, ensuring that each transaction is secure and properly authorized.

Merchants can obtain their transaction key from their Authorize.net account dashboard. Additionally, to set up their bank account, merchants need to provide their bank account information, including their account number and routing number. Authorize.net uses this information to deposit funds into the merchant’s account, streamlining the payment process and ensuring timely access to funds.

By following these steps, businesses can efficiently set up their payment gateway and start processing transactions with confidence.

Summary

In summary, Authorize.net stands out as a comprehensive and reliable payment gateway solution for businesses of all sizes. As a payment gateway, Authorize.net acts as an intermediary that processes billing information between merchants and banks, enabling secure electronic and credit card payments. From its user-friendly merchant dashboard and flexible payment links to its robust fraud detection tools and recurring payment features, Authorize.net offers everything a business needs to manage transactions efficiently and securely.

Whether you’re a high-risk merchant, an international business, or a local retailer, Authorize.net provides tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. By choosing Authorize.net, you’re not only ensuring secure and efficient payment processing but also setting your business up for long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Authorize.net?

Payment gateway Authorize.net is a prominent service that enables businesses to process transactions securely and efficiently. It is a trusted solution for handling online payments.

What are the key features of Authorize.net?

Authorize.net offers a user-friendly merchant dashboard, payment links, recurring payment options, and robust fraud detection tools. Upon approval for a high-risk merchant account, businesses automatically receive configurations for fraud prevention settings along with their new merchant account details. These features enhance payment processing efficiency and security for businesses.

What support does Authorize.net offer for high-risk merchants?

Authorize.net provides specialized support such as fraud prevention tools and recurring payment management specifically designed for high-risk merchants. By allowing customers to use their US bank accounts for transactions, Authorize.net simplifies payment processing and ensures secure and efficient checkouts through eChecks. This allows you to effectively mitigate risks while managing your transactions.

What is the pricing structure of Authorize.net?

Authorize.net has a pricing structure that features a monthly fee of $25, alongside transaction fees of 2.9% plus $0.30 for the all-in-one plan, or $0.10 per transaction for the gateway-only plan. New merchants can set up a new merchant account with Authorize.net, which includes configurations for fraud prevention settings upon approval.

How does Authorize.net ensure security and PCI compliance?

Authorize.net ensures security and PCI compliance by utilizing advanced security tools, implementing fraud detection measures, and partnering with SecurityMetrics for robust data protection. Customers can securely use their US bank accounts for transactions, ensuring compliance and efficient checkouts through eChecks. This comprehensive approach helps maintain a secure transaction environment.

Michael Seaman

Michael Seaman

Michael Seaman is the co-founder and CEO of Swipesum. A veteran of the payments industry and former employee at one of the largest payments companies, Michael, along with his brother Stephen, has led Swipesum since its inception in 2016. Swipesum is committed to providing innovative payment solutions and exceptional service to its diverse clientele. In his free time, Michael enjoys traveling with his wife Kelsey and their three children, pole vaulting, and engaging in typical Midwestern dad activities.

Read more

Request a CONSULTATION

Meet one of our payment processing experts to see if working together makes sense.

We will schedule a quick consultation call to go over how you're currently handling merchant services, and present a proposal at no cost.

Man smiling while folding his arms

Swipesum.Insights

SWIPESUM.CONSULTING

We help businesses make intelligent payment decisions.

Learn more about Swipesum

audit Merchant services Statements

Start with a free merchant statement audit and analysis

Schedule an audit

consultation

Connect with a payments expert and get a free initial consultation

Book consultation

By submitting this form you agree to receive information about Swipesum product updates via email as described in our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.