The e-commerce sites can be online via a number of solutions. The site can be developed:
- With a customized solution (Development processing);
- From a software solution : Magento, Prestashop, osCommerce, Zen Cart, IBM Websphere Commerce Server, Microsoft Commerce Server, etc …
- From a SAAS platform : PowerBoutique, Oxatis, Rentashop, 42Stores …;
- From a tool for as a CMS (WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, etc …)
When you’re on a e-cart, how to know the technology that runs behind?
Examples:
- Magento sites, when it comes to the purchasing process the link ends with “checkout / OnePage /”
- For sites IBM Websphere commerce server, there is usually the “wcs” in the URLs of pages basket or purchasing process.
- For Microsoft sites, shopping page often ends with “Cart.aspx” (with the extension aspx, sign of the Microsoft technology).
I could multiply examples … but anyway with a little practice, you can guess the platform behind the e-commerce website very quickly.
If you do not know the platform (possibly because the site is developed with a specific programming language), by searching a bit, you get in general idea to identify the technology behind the site:
- “. Php ‘for sites in PHP
- “. Asp” for sites using the old technology of Microsoft;
- “. Aspx” for sites using the new technology “. NET” of Microsoft;
- “. Cfm” for sites using ColdFusion (technology for developing Web sites carried today by Adobe);
- “Servlet” somewhere in the URL for sites based on Java;
- …
Interesting?
Well it is useful to really know which technology powers the various sites. This is a great way to get a good idea about what makes a particular platform more popular. However, this analysis is limited but can help you to choose your next e-commerce platform.
Note: Each shopping cart software demands different kinds of server resources so make sure you pick the right hosting platform for your e-cart. If you are at starting point then you can start with shared hosting, but for advanced features you should consider Cloud Hosting or Virtual Private Server or Dedicated Server Hosting.
Having already had to do with SQL injection, it is something very disturbing … GreenSQL is a free GPL licensed solution to protect your MySQL databases from attacks such as “SQL Injection”, “Cross-Site Scripting” and “Cross-Site Request Forgeries.”
GreenSQL works as a proxy for SQL queries on MySQL databases. Note: that it is expected to operate also on the PostgreSQL database using the roadmap. You can also find the post that talks with the title: GreenSQL for PostgreSQL
The operation is based on an evaluation of SQL commands using a risk scoring matrix (It reminds me that spamassassin) and the blocking of administrative commands (DROP, CREATE, etc.).
GreenSQL operates in reverse-proxy, ie, the SQL query will be forwarded to GreenSQL will analyze it and then pass it on to MySQL so it is accepted.
GreenSQL listening on port 3305 and redirect requests to port 3306, port standard of MySQL
GreenSQL can operate in different modes:
* Simulation (IDS database) – only detect but not blocking anything
* Protection (database IPS) – Detect and block queries
* Learning Mode
* Protection against non listed queries
In the simulation mode, GreenSQL log in to SQL queries and sends a notification via the administration console to analyze suspicious requests by checking the risk scoring matrix to inform administrators.
In Protection mode, if a request is considered illegal following questioning of its algorithmic engine, a white list is consulted. If it appears in the white list, then it is sent to the MySQL engine. But if the request is deemed unlawful, GreenSQL returns a null response set to the application on the Web server. Of course with this method, it is possible to have false-positive and false negative errors …
The learning mode is precisely to correct this problem by learning the types of possible queries, it will then switch back to protect against those queries who are not in SQL query list.
When the mode of protection against non listed queries is enabled, applications or queries that were not included in the white list are automatically rejected.
GreenSQL will then calculate the risk posed by this application and assemble the information to the management console. This is the fastest mode because it only calculate the risk for new requests.
That is basically the operation of GreenSQL, which I think really be a very interesting solution, although the best is still to predict risks in development, but regarding the performance of the web application, it does not appear as it impacted on a performance test performed with the use of GreenSQL.
Note: GreenSQL packages are provided for the most common Linux distributions (CentOS, Debian, Fedora, Mandriva, RHEL 5, 5 SLE, Opensuse, Ubuntu)
Horde Webmail is even more of a collaborative framework of services. And since June 14, a new version of Horde is out. This is the version 4, which is a major new release.
The following new features and changes improved overall Horde 4 performance.
* Completely rewritten in php 5
* New installation procedure through a PEAR installer
* Simplifying the configuration process
* Support for ActiveSync
* Layout without frames
* Group preferences
* Improving the cache and reducing the size of the sessions.
* Shared libraries are faster
* Reducing dependencies on external libraries
* Many miscellaneous improvements.
Mail:
* Many interface improvements including a vertical side panel
* Complete rewrite of IMAP support for better support and a great performance improvement
* Increased and improved filter capabilities and research
* Rapid response capability
* Improved notifications of new posts
* Better display of HTML mail
* HTML Signature
* Automatic saving of drafts
* Support for custom IMAP flags
* Reduced memory usage
Address book:
* Search for duplicates and opportunities to merge contacts
Calendar:
* New AJAX interface with integrated task management
* New interface for mobile
* Resource planning
* Colorization of the calendar
* Tagging system
* Support for cross-timezone
* Support CalDAV
* Reinforced exceptions for recurring events
* Improved messages for notification and invitation.
Management tasks:
* New AJAX interface in the calendar
* System task list
* Colorization task lists
* Quickly add tasks
The Web Host Manager is the mostly used control panel, in the administration of the web hosting plan. Through WHM, various hosting plans can be created and can add, remove, lock or unlock a domain. You can even change your passwords and check the website traffic generated at each domain.
Options available in your WHM control panel, and know what each option link for.
Server Setup (Server Settings)
Setup Remote Access Key – (Set passkey): Function aimed at programmers who want to interact with an external script Web Host Manager. This option generates a “key” to access the remote server.
Server Status
Service Status (Status of Services): Check in real time, the situation (status) of the services on your server.
Server Information: Displays the configurations (hardware and software) of your server.
Account Functions (Administration Accounts)
List Accounts: List all areas related to its web hosting plan, displaying information about each domain (PI domain, user name, email address for contact, date, configuration, disk space allocated and used, plan and used the theme control panel – cPanel).
Create a New Account: Set in a few seconds, a new domain in your reseller plan. Simply tell some data (field, user name, password and hosting plan).
Skeleton Directory (Directory Standard): All content (files) placed in this directory will be copied automatically during the process of domain configuration on the server to your directory.
Terminate an Account: Removes all configuration, including all files in a server domain. This operation is irreversible.
Terminate Multiple Accounts: Removes all configuration, including all files, in various areas of the server at the same time. This operation is irreversible.
Upgrade / Downgrade an Account: Amendment to the plan of hosting a domain. Performed after the change of plan, the field will also, automatically, the new features and boundaries (space and traffic).
View Bandwidth Usage: List all your domains stating the amount (in MB) transferred by each of the current month and previous months.
Suspend / Unsuspended Account Page: Hang or releases a given field. When suspended, all services are automatically stopped (the files are not removed).
List Suspended Accounts: Lists all domains suspended, with some additional information (date of suspension and reason – if informed in suspension).
Modify Suspended Account Page: Customize the page that appears when a domain is suspended. The page will be created using HTML commands.
Password Modification: Changes the password for a particular area. Use this function if you forget your account password.
List Subdomains: List, grouping by domain, all domains created.
Themes
Change WHM Theme (Change theme WHM): Choose the theme to be used in WebHost Manager. We recommend the use of Topic X, because in it you will have access of all the updated features of the server.
Packages
Feature Manager: Still in testing phase, this function allows you to define which resources (functions) your client will have access. Those who do not have access it will not appear on the control panel ( cPanel).
Add Packages: Make your plans (packages) hosting. Limit disk space, monthly traffic and features (CGI, subdomains, databases, FrontPage extensions and additional areas) for use by their clients (domains).
Delete Packages: Delete an existing hosting plan. For the exclusion is possible, may not have any field linked to the plan.
Edit Packages: Change the features of a hosting plan. All areas related to this plan will be automatically configured with the new limits (disk space and monthly traffic) and resources.
DNS Functions
Park or Point a Domain (Parking area or point): Create an appointment (parking) domain, ie. all access to domain and email will be sent automatically to be processed in another domain.
Parked Domains List: List, grouping by domain, all notes created.
Add a DNS Zone: Create a DNS zone on the server. This option should only be used by users who has full knowledge of its operation. Otherwise, your domain and your customers will be compromised.
Edit the MX Entry: Change the MX for a domain. This option should only be used by users who have full knowledge of its operation. Otherwise, your domain and your customers will be compromised.
Edit DNS Zone: In this option you can edit the zones from one DNS. You can change the DNS entries in the DNS zone. This option should only be used by advanced users.
Delete a DNS Zone: Delete a DNS zone server. This option should only be used by users who has full knowledge of its operation. Otherwise, your domain and your customers will have to be compromised.
FrontPage
Install FrontPage Extensions: Install FrontPage Extensions on a domain. Use this option only when your client requests (to be installed, several files are generated within the domain directory).
Uninstall FrontPage Extensions: Removes the installation of FrontPage extensions on a domain (all files created before will be deleted). The files of your client will not be erased.
Install FrontPage Mail Extensions: Install the FrontPage extensions messages from a domain. Use this option only when your client requests (to be installed, several files are generated within the domain directory).
Mail Troubleshooter (Diagnostic Errors an Email): Tool used to correct possible problems in an email account.
cPanel
Branding: Customize with your logo, your customer’s cPanel (feature available only for some subjects). This option should only be used by users who have full knowledge of its operation. Otherwise, your domain and your customers will have to be compromised.
Reset a Shopping Cart: Reset (delete) the settings of the virtual store from one domain (all previously registered data will be lost).
Modify cPanel / WHM News: Include news, messages, news or notices to its customers within cPanel (will be displayed on the main control panel – cPanel).
Synchronize FTP Passwords: Updates the password file on the FTP server with the passwords fields. Always do this when changing the password of a domain within the Web Host Manager.
The Dedicated Hosting Plan is packaged with an absolute set of easy-to-use tools such as Web Host Manager (WHM) which saves time and increases your focus on your ever growing business.
If you are thinking about launching a new e-commerce website with the hosting part then, do not forget that your needs are unique. Besides a basic web hosting plan, you will need full support for its e-commerce platform.
Hosting E-commerce: The Basic Needs
As electronic commerce grows,it’s basic needs are as important as the websites. You need fast bandwidth and enough space and support the number of visitors and buyers that you are expecting.
Hosting of E-commerce and Its Process of Payment made by Customers
Once you have decided on the process of paying customers in electronic commerce on your site, you need to make sure that your hosting service can support them and that is efficient. In many cases payment for the purchase of products through the Internet, there is a need for some specific programs or API (Advanced Programming Interface) installed on your server so that you can use it whenever required.
What happens when my hosting provider of e-commerce does not support my payment process?
1. Immediately contact the customer support and ask them if they are willing to install the necessary software. Can take and give some work to get it, but be persistent.
2. If option-1 is not working, you need to change your gateway for online payment or your hosting provider of e-commerce. Anyway, make sure that the new hosting provider of e-commerce support your current payment gateway online.
A platform for efficient e-commerce enables customers know and buying profiles through relationship tools and monitoring processes.
Main Modules and Tools:
1. Design / Layout : Design is responsible for the client to connect emotionally with the store, making the experience of being in your company is unique. This prompts him to seek further information within the virtual structure of your company. It Should be:
- Design Shop 100 % customized
- Have integration between design and programming in an organized and clear manner
- Structure based on usability studies
- Autonomy to customize fields and text directly from the control panel
- Consultancy for creating banners and images for your store
- Customized look for each section of your online store
- Visual theme for each list of “Tips Products”
2. Institutional content : Through a simplified control panel, you have freedom to manage their customer help pages and information about your firm, changing text and images.
3. Clients : Knowing your customer is the first step to success in sales. The e-commerce should provide all the tools necessary for this to occur, such as:
- Simplified register of customers
- Registration of multiple delivery addresses, such as checking online CEP
- Report of purchases made by customers
- Information on individual and overall average ticket
- Product unavailable and that the customer wishes to receive a notice when they come into stock again
- Products the customer has indicated to others
- Checking product reviews made by the client
- List of most profitable customers and assets
- Analysis of client inactivity, allowing contact to return sales
- History of the latest products displayed by the client
- Lock customers with a history of fraud
- Adding comments available only to administrators
4. Customer Area : After signing up at your store the client has access to an exclusive area where you can manage your information and preferences, as follows:
- My Account : Personal information management, such as email, phone, status, etc…
- Delivery Address : Management of delivery addresses
- Order History : Information on the applications already made, such as amount, date, tracking number, etc…
- Wedding List : Managing the list of requested products, products already purchased, that has value as bonuses, etc…
5. Navigation tools : Home page with featured products and promotions:
- Search for products by name, manufacturer or description
- Display of promotional banners
- Easier navigation through historical hierarchical sections viewed
6. Products / Stock : Both their products as their stocks can be managed through a central tool and robust. The e-commerce can be used for selling any type of product. It must have:
- Management Section, Category and Sub-category of your catalog
- Management and creation of individual page of Manufacturers
- Possibility of registration of products in multiple areas of the store
- Registration of products with variations in color, size, etc., defining value, stock, weight and other information on an individual basis
- Registration of individual meta tags for improved positioning in search engine
- Custom description fields
- Determination of featured products
- Possibility of working with free shipping by product
- Sending multiple files and automatic creation of thumbnails
- Determination of minimum stock generally or individually, where the system sends a warning via e-mail stating when the product reaches the limit specified
- Simplified control enabling reporting, and online update inventory
- Statistics and purchased products more accessible
- Verification of customers who bought the product
- Registration of related products or automatic display of “who bought this product also bought X”
7. Tools Relationship / Sale : Through the tools of relationship can offer a better service and also a closer relationship to their customers, customizing them and making their mark fix :
- Discount Coupons : Great option to offer discounts and benefits to both customers and for future customers. You can offer discounts as a percentage (ex: 15% discount), fixed value (ex: $5 or $10 discount), free shipping and determine a minimum value for this benefit is offered.
- Online service via CHAT : Enables a more dynamic service to its customers as it is online. They may contact their team directly through its store, getting even induce an increase in the amount of the request by generating instant discounts
- Suggest this product: Let your customers from forwarding tips to friends via a simple click in your store. Record the information in the database for future generation of sales.
- Tell Me When You Are Available: Have you thought about how many of your customers are waiting to return a product to stock in your store? Through this tool they can register to receive a notice when the product becomes available and you can better plan what and how many products will reset to its stock.
- Wedding List : If your products are commonly demanded by grooms, allow to create lists of marriages and offer discounts on the value of purchases made through its store
- Product Tips : Create lists of tips on products for special occasions or specific audiences that can create pages with unique look for each tip
- E- mail marketing : Integrating your store with a professional tool for email marketing where you can send personalized messages via e -mail to your customers, promoting products and news. After sending, you see a full report of the quantity of emails delivered, read, clicked, etc…
- Tool banners : Distribute their products visually, giving them more prominence. Real time control the amount of views and clicks received by your campaign.
- Gift Wrapping : Determine which products can be packed for this and how much to charge for this service.
- Specialty stores : Want to create an environment with a different layout to disclose a release or a new supplier? Create a “store special” with visual and differentiated products
- Free Shipping : Manage ZIP tracks where the freight will be charged. You can also determine which is the minimum amount of purchase for which the benefit is offered.
- Product Reviews and Rating : Allow your customers to qualify and comment on products in your store.
- Cross-selling : Search and automatic display of “who bought this product also bought xxx”. You can also determine which products are related, “forcing” the view of this statement.
8. Shopping Cart : It is through him that your customers can see products purchased, amounts of freight, discount coupons, etc :
- Smart Cart : Records all actions of his client so that it is not necessary that he inform the characteristics of the application again, such as zip code, Discount Coupon, etc…
- Possibility to change the desired quantity and removing products.
- Check stock at all stages of the cart, not allowing your customer to buy products which are out of stock
- Automatic calculation of freight according to weight and value of the claim
- Modern design and clear, enabling quick understanding of the summary of purchase
- Automatic calculation of values for splitting
9. Multiple Administrators : Thinking about the growth and expansion of your business, you can control multiple administrators with access to your management tool, and to determine which areas each can access. Moreover, the actions taken by them will be logged, allowing you to follow all the steps used in the process of closing request.
10. Order Management : E-commerce offers simplified forms to manage day-to-day operations of their store. This is the module you will have more interaction, managing the processing of applications received :
- Listing quick search requests by customer, date, amount, status, etc…
- Details of products, customer, sending form, form of payment, etc…
- Checking the log of the interactions made in the application as an exchange of status and comments
- Adding comments available only to administrators
- Automatic printing of labels
- Possibility of exporting data to Excel for the issuance of tax-note
- Automatic transmission by the message system after 10 days of delivery to the customer requesting comment on the material received
- Verification of customer order history
- Integration module banners and Email Marketing for measuring results leveraged
- Integration with the anti-fraud tool for analysis of purchases
- Reports on order volume, profit-medium, most sought after products, etc…
11. Statistics and Reports : E-commerce will allow the intersection of diverse information in order to create custom reports and enable a comprehensive analysis of your online store.
12. Shipping Methods and Payment : Because it is modular you can integrate all the tools for collection and delivery controllers that provide gateways calculation or tables so that they are made. Among them we can highlight :
- Credit Cards: All flags credit card
- Credit card authorization form : All banks are available
- Payment Gateway : Digital Payment, PayPal and Google Checkout
- Post office: Express Mail, PAC, e- Courier, Courier 10
- Transport : With national coverage and with gateway or table to calculate freight through scaling, weight and value
13. Safety : Safety of information from your store is one of our biggest concerns. All the code is read-protected through encryption and all processes must be tested and audited so they can not be changed by malicious users. Moreover, every financial transaction is effected in a safe environment and no data for charging his client is stored on the server.
14. SEO : It is a technique of optimizing a page (or even the entire site) to be better understood by search engines. The consequence of using SEO techniques is the best positioning of a site on a results page from a search :
- Good rankings in search engines is now one of the best ways to attract customers to his store, however, is a process that requires great effort and customization of your store
- The e-commerce tool was developed considering the various SEO tools, we can highlight
- Use of URLs
- Setting meta-tags and page title according to products and the page being viewed
- Development layout with source code clean and well structured
15. External Tools : The provider should have strategic partnerships to provide the customers with third-party tools with value and customer care services. E-commerce should be easily integrated with several tools, including:
- EBIT : Qualification tool for online stores
- Google Analytics: Integration for tracking client interaction and visits to the shop
- Click Heat : Tool for positioning analysis of clicks within your site. Allows to identify which areas are clicked by users
16. Module B2B – Wholesale Sales : With e-commerce you can have in a same-store sales in two distinct interfaces : one for the end customer (B2C) and another for wholesale (B2B), and the only option for channel.
The module for wholesale sales makes some changes in the structure of your online store. Among them are:
- Customer base with pre-approval, certain credit limit, and discounting the price table to be used.
- Registration of products with price ranges for amount and type of room pricing.
- Sales reports by customer, outstanding payments, etc…
17. Consulting and Support : The company shall provide all necessary advice during the development of your online store so that everything happens according to plan.
Even after finalizing the development process, you will have continued support of the company to determine the technical and operational questions. In case of purchase of e-commerce tool support will be offered for some months and in case of leasing, while the contract is in force.
18. Hosting and Maintenance Online: Maintenance of special servers for web hosting requirement of your online store, secure environment with unlimited transactions, hits, etc… Besides the website you can use a shared SSL certificate secure accounts or a dedicated SSL certificate, email and various tools for managing email.
Always, look for a solution of e-commerce (online store) that gives you complete flexibility and security, of-course made by a different company that offers differentiated services to not have any kind of headaches in the future.