Course Content
Data Structures & Algorithms
Full Stack Web Development
Understanding and playing with DOM (Document Object Model)
0/2
MERN project
0/2
Low Level System Design
LLD Topics
High Level System Design
Fast-Track to Full Spectrum Software Engineering
Requirements of PayPal

Payment Gateway System like PayPal must handle secure, real-time transactions between users, banks, and merchants. The requirements of such a system are categorized into Functional Requirements and Non-Functional Requirements to give a complete overview of what the system should do and how it should perform.



Functional Requirements:

  • User Registration and Authentication
    The system should allow users to register using a valid email address or mobile number, and create a secure password. Upon login, users should go through secure authentication, including options like two-factor authentication (2FA).

 

  • Account Management
    Users must be able to create either personal or business accounts, update personal information, link their bank accounts, credit/debit cards, or digital wallets, and view their transaction history.

 

  • Send and Receive Money
    The system should allow users to send money to others using email or mobile number, and receive money in their PayPal account, with the option to transfer it to a linked bank account.

 

  • Payment to Merchants and Invoicing
    Users (especially businesses) should be able to make online payments to vendors or e-commerce platforms. It should also allow creation and sending of invoices directly from the PayPal account.

 

  • Currency Conversion
    The system should automatically convert the currency when users transact in different countries, based on real-time exchange rates and applicable service charges.

 

  • Dispute Resolution & Refunds
    A built-in resolution center should exist where users can raise disputes for unreceived items or fraud. The system must also allow for partial or full refunds of transactions.


Non-Functional Requirements:

  • Security and Compliance
    The system must comply with PCI-DSS standards, SSL encryption for all communications, and implement fraud detection algorithms to safeguard user data and funds.

 

  • Performance and Scalability
    The application should be able to handle thousands of concurrent transactions without lag, ensuring minimal downtime even during peak traffic.

 

  • Availability and Reliability
    The system should ensure high availability (ideally 99.999%) with backup systems and recovery protocols to prevent transaction loss in case of system failure.

 

  • Audit and Logging
    Every action (like login, money transfer, refund) should be logged for auditing purposes. This is crucial for debugging, legal compliance, and preventing financial misuse.

 

  • Platform Compatibility
    PayPal must be accessible via web browsers, mobile apps (Android/iOS), and API integrations with third-party platforms such as e-commerce websites and point-of-sale systems.

 

  • User Interface and Experience (UI/UX)
    The interface should be intuitive, responsive, and user-friendly for all types of users, providing accessibility support and multi-language options where applicable.
0% Complete
WhatsApp Icon

Hi Instagram Fam!
Get a FREE Cheat Sheet on System Design.

Hi LinkedIn Fam!
Get a FREE Cheat Sheet on System Design

Loved Our YouTube Videos? Get a FREE Cheat Sheet on System Design.