NopCommerce is an open-source eCommerce platform built on Microsoft’s ASP.NET Core framework and the MS SQL Server 2012 database. It has a catalog interface and a backend administrative tool that allows you to create shopping carts.
Let us learn more about NopCommerce below.
What is NopCommerce?
NopCommerce is a free, open-source eCommerce solution for Windows. It has support for large online stores that serve millions of customers worldwide. And its open-source community is always contributing new code that improves the platform.
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NopCommerce comes in two different versions:
As A Package
This version includes everything you need to build a fully functional eCommerce store. This includes the pre-built administration tool, the storefronts, and payment gateway plugins. All you have to do is install NopCommerce and it is ready to be used out of the box.
As A Solution
This version is a standalone version targeting beginners in e-commerce. It does not come with a pre-built administration tool or with a storefront, but it does have everything you need to build your solution from scratch.
So if you want to build your admin panel or plug in your shopping cart software, this version of NopCommerce is right for you.
‘As A Package’ Versus ‘As A Solution’
If you want to get started quickly with an existing eCommerce solution without spending too much time configuring it, installing As A Package is your best choice. You will have everything set up in less than 15 minutes, and you will be able to start selling right away.
On the other hand, if you are interested in building an application from scratch or if you want full control over your eCommerce solution. Then, choosing As A Solution may be your best choice since it does not come with any pre-packaged code.
Moreover, it provides only the framework for building an application from scratch on top of ASP.NET Core and SQL Server 2012/2014/2016 (SQL Server 2017 support on the way). So it’s like Microsoft Visual Studio without any predefined project templates. Instead of giving you a WinForms project template with predefined code, it gives you only the framework and leaves it up to you to create your custom project template by yourself.
Also, this means that if building an application from scratch is what you want, NopCommerce As A Solution version may be just what you’re looking for.
Bonus Tips in Using NopCommerce
Managing Your Content
Managing your content in NopCommerce will allow you to enhance your online store. This can be done by customizing it according to your preference. If you are not familiar with programming, you will need the help of a programmer or a web designer who knows how to work with NopCommerce.
For example, you can then give them an idea of how your online store will look by using Microsoft Powerpoint, for example. After that, they will know what type of design and layout they should use for your online store.
You may also want to create customized plugins for your online store. This way, you can make your store more efficient and enjoyable for both your customers and yourself. If this sounds like something you want, then all the customizations you make should be contained in one plugin file so that it can be easily copied when creating a new version of the site. This will make updating easier and faster.
Finding The Right Payment Gateway
If you plan on accepting payments from customers worldwide, a payment gateway is a must-have feature in NopCommerce. Without it, customers won’t be able to pay for their orders using credit cards or other payment methods offered by various banks around the world.
There are several payment gateways available today but not all of them are suitable for every e-commerce site due to their different features and functionalities that may not be needed by some sites. To find the right gateway for your site, make sure that they have a good reputation when it comes to security and reliability.
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