FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PROSTORES
  • Introduction
  • Editions
  • Feature List
    • Is it safe to accept customers' credit cards over the Internet?
    Yes, with ProStores it is absolutely safe. ProStores uses Secure Socket Layer (SSL), also known as secure order protection, secure certificate or digital certificate. Developed by Netscape, SSL is a protocol for securely encrypting and transmitting electronic information between web servers across the Internet, and is the most popular method for ensuring the secure transmission of credit card data and consumer information.
    Why is SSL important?
    SSL is a critical requirement for conducting responsible, competitive e-commerce. Every time an e-commerce transaction is conducted on the Internet, personal confidential data like credit card numbers or social security numbers are exchanged among the shopper, the merchant and the appropriate parties involved in the transaction process like a payment processor. This information is susceptible to interception by unauthorized third parties and malicious attacks by computer hackers. SSL protects against these risks. At the same time, it also authenticates or validates the ownership of a website and ensures that the submitted data is supplied to the rightful storefront owner and the appropriate parties involved in the purchase transaction.
    Do I need a special Internet merchant account?
    There are several types of merchant accounts, those for use in “bricks & mortar” retail establishments, those for use in mail and phone order businesses, and those for use with Internet stores. While not everyone needs an Internet merchant account, there are many benefits to having one. For example, an Internet merchant account will eliminate the need for you to process credit cards manually, saving you time and effort and allowing you to get paid faster.
    Can I use my existing merchant account?
    If you already have an Internet merchant account, you can easily transfer it over. ProStores currently supports merchant accounts that use the following payment processors: ANZ eGate, Authorize.Net, CyberSource, ECX Quick Commerce Pro, Paymentech, PSiGate, SurePay, Versign Payflow Pro and WorldPay. If your existing merchant account is not an Internet merchant account, you may or may not be able to use the account to complete online credit card transactions through ProStores. Please check your merchant account Terms of Service agreement carefully to determine whether you can integrate the account with your online store.
    What if I don't have a merchant account yet?
    No problem! ProStores has a built-in merchant account application that will allow you to apply online. Upon approval, your merchant account will be automatically generated.
    Can I use my own domain name?
    Yes. As part of the sign-up process we will help you register your own domain name or transfer an existing domain name to our servers.
    Can I use my existing web design?
    Yes. ProStores’s flexible, fully customizable templates make it easy to build your store exactly the way you like.
    I use QuickBooks to manage my business. Is ProStores compatible?
    ProStores is fully integrated with QuickBooks Pro 2002 and QuickBooks Premier 2002, so moving your business online is easier than ever. ProStores includes a two-way link with QuickBooks, allowing you to manage your finances, your online store and your customer relationships in a single, efficient and easy-to-use e-business system.
    Do I have to enter my products individually?
    No. While you can enter products one at a time, if you have your product information in a database or Excel spreadsheet already, you can move it into the store in one step using the Storefront import feature. If you are a QuickBooks 2002 user, you can easily upload all your product-related information – description, cost, sale price, quantity in stock – into your online store with just a few mouse clicks.
    Do I need special software to run my store?
    No. You can manage your store from any web browser with Internet access.
    Can I generate reports on my store's business?
    Yes. ProStores gives you the tools you need to monitor and manage your store. You will have access to detailed tracking and reporting, and you can export to QuickBooks and other applications to integrate your store with your current business tools.