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LearnWhat is a payment service provider (PSP)?
A payment service provider (PSP) enables a business to accept card and alternative payments by bundling the technology and banking relationships - often the gateway, processing and acquiring - into one service.
What a PSP provides
A PSP typically gives you a gateway, connections to acquirers, fraud and chargeback tooling, and reporting - so you can start accepting payments without integrating each piece separately.
PSP vs acquirer vs gateway
The gateway moves data, the acquirer moves money, and the PSP packages them together. A full-stack PSP like PlatinumEdge also adds dedicated MIDs, smart routing and 200+ payment methods.
Choosing a PSP for high-risk
For high-risk verticals, choose a PSP that underwrites your industry, offers dedicated MIDs and routing, and holds the right licences. See our high-risk payment gateway.
Is a PSP the same as a payment gateway?
No - the gateway is one component. A PSP bundles the gateway with processing, acquiring relationships and tooling into a single service.
Do I need a PSP or a direct acquirer?
A PSP is faster to start and bundles everything; a direct acquirer relationship offers more control at higher complexity. Many high-risk merchants use a full-stack PSP.