eCommerce platforms

An eCommerce platform is a software technology solution that enables you to build an online store and run a business online. eCommerce software provides you with tools that facilitate inventory management, help to calculate taxes, and make it easier to add or remove products in your store. eCommerce platforms can be very beneficial for those without technical backgrounds since the software takes care of a lot of the operation.

• Wide range of design possibilities
• Top-notch site security
• Easy to create pages and content
• Ability to grow as your store expands
• Expand capabilities with third party plugins
• Online support
• Multi-channel functionality

eCommerce software enables you to have everything you need to run your store in one place. If there are tasks that the platform can't do, it's possible to link other plugins or apps (e.g., X, Facebook) to the platform so you don't have to switch between different services all the time. Choosing the right eCommerce platform is crucial for your business. The general rule of thumb is that the more flexible the software is, the less simplistic it will be.

There are many eCommerce platforms out there, but the six major platforms are Magento, WooCommerce, PrestaShop, osCommerce, b2evolution, and the IONOS eCommerce Website Builder.

This comparison of the different e-commerce platforms can put things into perspective and help you decide on the best eCommerce platform for you and your store.

E-commerce platforms are usually based on a common programming language such as Java or PHP. To get the platform online, you either host it yourself or have it hosted for you in the cloud. A third possibility is mixed-hosting where you get the best of both worlds. IONOS hosts six of the best e-commerce platforms, which makes it a lot easier for you to get started.

IONOS offers several hosting packages so there's something for you, whether you're a freelancer or a large company setting up their online store. Installation requires a few simple clicks in the IONOS App Center and then you can begin designing your store. Magento, WooCommerce, PrestaShop, osCommerce, b2evolution and the IONOS eCommerce Website Builder provide you with numerous ways to individualize your storefront to help you stand out from your competition.

Visit the Help Center if you have any more questions on how eCommerce platforms work.

It can be hard to distinguish the difference between free open-source online store platforms and paid eCommerce solutions. So, what's the difference?

An open-source online store is generally intended for professional developers and those familiar with programming languages, because they enable the highest level of customization for very specific needs.

Paid online store platforms are best for anyone starting out in eCommerce, whether it's to accompany a physical storefront or to launch entirely as an online retailer. They're user friendly and often times you don't need IT knowledge.

The advantages of an online store are that you can reach a whole new customer base, increase your sales, and be able to sell 24/7 without the limitations of a physical store.

Generally speaking, creating an online store can significantly increase your business turnover and can even save you money by allowing you to identify and meet the specific needs of your customers. In this way, you'll have more relevance to your audience and can adapt more easily to their buying habits.

The length of time it takes to create an online store depends on a number of factors and can vary based on the size of the shop, the tech used, the budget available, and the creator's IT skill level.

You can find a number of resources in the Digital Guide that will help speed up the process of starting an online store, offering advice on dealing with the different stages of creating your shop.