Card Network

What is Card Network?

A card network is the technical system that facilitates the communication between an acquiring bank and an issuing bank. It acts as the bridge that allows transaction data to flow securely across the globe to authorize and settle payments.

Networks like Visa and Mastercard operate these systems, ensuring that a card swiped in one country can be authorized by a bank in another. They are responsible for the speed and reliability of the global payment infrastructure.

Why It Matters

• Enables real-time authorization of transactions across different banks

• Standardizes the format of payment data for global interoperability

• Provides the clearing and settlement mechanisms for moving funds

• Implements security protocols like 3D Secure to protect transaction data