The short answer
The gateway securely transmits card data from your website to the processor. The processor routes it to the card networks and issuing banks, and the acquirer settles funds to your account. Some providers bundle all three; others let you choose each independently.
Why the split matters
An independent gateway can keep working when you change processor, so your checkout, integrations and stored cards survive. A bundled stack means changing processor means rebuilding.
The all-in-one trade-off
All-in-one platforms are simpler and often cheaper at low volume. They also make leaving expensive, which is exactly why their pricing tends to stay flat as you grow.
Key takeaways
- Gateway transmits, processor routes, acquirer settles
- Independent gateways preserve your ability to re-shop
- All-in-one simplicity is paid for later
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