payments en
Card network
payments
Also called: payment network
Plain-language definition
Plain-language definition
A payment network that routes card transactions between financial institutions.
Why it matters
Network rules influence acceptance, fees, evidence, timing, and dispute handling.
Technical detail
A card network defines messaging, operating, dispute, and settlement rules connecting issuers, acquirers, and merchants.
Examples
- Visa or Mastercard routes transaction messages between the merchant’s acquirer and the card issuer.
Related terms
Sources and review
Reviewed July 12, 2026 by [email protected]. Next review due January 11, 2027.
- Payment methods — Stripe Accessed 7/11/2026
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