An interbank network, also known as an ATM consortium or ATM network, is a computer network that connects the ATMs of different

banks and permits these ATMs to interact with the ATM cards of non-native banks. While interbank networks provide capabilities for all ATM cards within the same network to use other banks' ATMs that belong to the same network, the services vary. For instance, when a person uses their ATM card at an ATM that does not belong to their bank, the basic services, such as balance inquiries and withdrawals, are usually available. However, special services, such as the purchase of mobile phone airtime, may not be accessible to ATM cardholders of banks other than the ATM cardholders of the acquirer (the bank that owns the ATM). Furthermore, banks may charge a fee to users of cards that do not come from their own bank (in addition to any fees imposed by the bank of the card the person is using).

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A credit card terminal is a type of a Point of sale (POS) terminal that can do transactions with a credit card. A couple of types of credit card terminals are available to merchants. Most have the same basic purpose and functions. They allow a merchant to insert, swipe, or key in manually the required credit card information and transmit such data to the merchant service provider for authorization and then later on the transfer the fund to the merchant. Most newer models not only process credit cards, but they can also process debit cards, gift cards, checks, and so on. The majority of credit card terminals transmit data over a standard plain old telephone service line or the internet (either wired or wireless). Some also have the ability to store data and then transmit the data over a standard telephone line when one becomes available, however immediate authorization is not available at the time the card was processed. While remote wireless terminals can transmit card data using either cellular networks or satellite networks.

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