An API is the connection between a computer engineer and the application they create. It acts as the “middleman” accepts messages, passes them on as requests and then returns data to the message sender. A user could ask the middleman to return information, such as a list of customer names. Alternatively the user could send information to the middleman, for example when creating a new subscription for a customer.

Now that you know how an API works, here are some tips that will help you choose the right API for your business:

  • All documentation should be comprehensive and regularly updated. At Centrobill, we have complete reference documentation which is automatically updated whenever we make changes to the API, plus detailed guides that direct new users through the necessary steps to get started with their integration.
  • The API structure needs to be consistent, logical, and easy to follow as you’re going through the integration process. There should be clear error messages when something is not right.
  • If you are starting, check the amount of time that the API is operational. Is the API highly available and will it be up when you need it to be?
  • It is crucial that your service provider offers clear communication regarding the status and consistently posts any updates about changes in the platform.
  • Support should be provided by a dedicated team of API specialists who have the knowledge to solve your problems quickly and efficiently.
  • Keeping your data secure is especially important when speaking about payment API. It should be possible to easily change or rotate credentials (such as API keys) to restrict access if required (so machines can only read your data, not modify it) and encryption should be strong enough to keep your data secure.
  • A smooth transition, when a new version of the API is released, is always appreciated. It will help you move on and get accustomed to using the new features.
  • While building your integration, you will need to do several tests, as you won’t want to use real bank account details or take real payments. It is important to consider whether the API provides a sandbox or environment where you can experiment with dummy data.

At Centrobill we are committed to security, quality and maintenance via constant updates. We keep in mind every feature that adds up to a great API, and go the extra mile to make sure they’re always performing strongly. Are you ready to grow your business with Centrobill? Check out our developers page.

The first reason for changing a payment gateway is that it was previously linked to an account that has since been closed. When this happens, the merchant may be unable to process transactions until they have changed their payment gateway. This can happen when a business closes or merges with another company and needs to change its name in order to gain customers.

The second reason for changing a payment gateway is that the merchant has experienced an issue with fraud. This may happen if there are many transactions being processed through one account and it becomes difficult to ascertain which ones are genuine. In this case, it would be best to change your gateways so as not to lose any customers due to fraudulent purchases.

The third reason for changing a payment gateway is that the merchant wants to offer more options. This may be because they are looking to expand their business and want to reach new customers in different countries; it could also be that there was an issue with processing payments earlier on, so they have decided that opening up another account would solve this problem.

If you feel identified with any of this three cases above, we are here to explain what are the things you must take into account when choosing a payment gateway

Choose the right partner for you. There are many payment gateways available and the first step when making this decision is to think about what type of payment processing you need. You may want a gateway that only accepts certain types of credit cards, or one that offers payment options in different currencies.

Once you have narrowed down the payment gateways that are most appropriate for your needs, it’s time to start looking at what they offer. For example, some payment processors may not be able to process payments from a certain country or charge higher fees than others per transaction processed. This is especially important if you’re running an online business and need to take payment from a variety of countries.

If you are still unsure as to which payment gateway would be best for your needs, it is advisable to do some research on payment gateways reviews and testimonials in order to see how other merchants have found the experience working with them. At Centrobill we thrive to offer comprehensive tech solutions that will enable your organisation to grow and increase profits by providing industry-leading products and services.