How to Set Up a Payment Gateway for Your Website (Step-by-Step Guide)

Learn how to integrate a payment gateway into your website—from choosing a provider to API integration and testing.

Table of Content

Get your Paynet Gateway Now !

Get Started

How to Set Up a Payment Gateway for Your Website (Step-by-Step Guide)

Adding a payment gateway to your website is essential for accepting online payments securely. Whether you run an e-commerce store, SaaS platform, or subscription service, this step-by-step guide will help you choose, integrate, and test a payment gateway efficiently.

Step 1: Choose the Right Payment Gateway

Factors to Consider:

✅ Supported Payment Methods (Credit/Debit Cards, UPI, Wallets, BNPL)
✅ Pricing (Setup fees, transaction fees, hidden costs)
✅ Integration Options (Hosted, API, Plugins)
✅ Security & Compliance (PCI-DSS, 3D Secure 2.0)
✅ Country & Currency Support

Top Payment Gateways in 2025:

Gateway
Best For
Key Features
Razorpay
Indian Businesses
UPI, PayLater, AutoPay
PayPal
International Sales
One-Tap Checkout
Paynet
High-Volume Merchants
Low FX Fees, Fraud Protection

Step 2: Create a Merchant Account

 

  1. Sign up on the payment gateway’s website.

  2. Submit KYC documents (Business PAN, Bank Details, GST if applicable).

  3. Wait for approval (1-3 business days).

💡 Pro Tip: Some providers (like Razorpay) offer instant onboarding for small businesses.*

Step 3: Select an Integration Method

Option A: Hosted Checkout (Easiest)

  • How it works: Redirects customers to the gateway’s payment page.

  • Best for: Small businesses, quick setup.

  • Example: PayPal Standard, Razorpay Hosted.

Option B: API Integration (Most Control)

  • How it works: Custom payment UI on your website.

  • Best for: Developers, custom UX needs.

  • Example: Stripe Elements, Paynet API.

Option C: Plugin (For E-commerce Platforms)

  • How it works: Pre-built plugins for Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.

  • Best for: WordPress, Magento, BigCommerce users.

Step 4: Integrate the Payment Gateway

For API Integration (Example: Stripe/Paynet)

  1. Get API Keys (Test & Live keys from the dashboard).

  2. Install SDK (JavaScript/PHP/Python).

  3. Add Checkout Code
    // Example: Stripe Checkout Integration
    const stripe = Stripe(‘YOUR_PUBLIC_KEY’);
    stripe.redirectToCheckout({ sessionId: ‘CHECKOUT_SESSION_ID’ });

For WordPress/WooCommerce

  1. Install WooCommerce Stripe/PayPal Plugin.

  2. Enter API credentials in settings.

  3. Enable UPI/Cards/Wallets.

Step 5: Test Transactions (Sandbox Mode)

  • Use test cards (e.g., 4242 4242 4242 4242 for Stripe).

  • Simulate failures (Insufficient funds, expired cards).

  • Verify webhooks (for subscription/recurring payments).

Step 6: Go Live & Optimize

  1. Switch from Sandbox to Live Mode.
  2. Enable fraud filters (3D Secure, velocity checks).
  3. Monitor performance (Success rates, drop-offs).
  4.  

How long does setup take?

Hosted (1-2 hours), API (1-3 days), Plugin (30 mins).

Do I need a business bank account?

Yes, payouts are deposited directly into your account.

Can I switch gateways later?

Yes, but migration requires re-integration.

What’s the cheapest gateway?

UPI (0% MDR), Razorpay (1.8% + ₹3 per txn).

Expand your reach with a gateway built for scale.

Scroll to Top