# Process Flow

Below is a high-level view of how a typical request is processed:

1. **Merchant System → Convergegate API**
   * Your system sends an HTTPS request to the Convergegate API using the **Sandbox** or **Production** base URL.
   * The request includes:
     * Required authentication headers (`Authorization` and, if applicable, `Signature`).
     * Required request body parameters for the selected endpoint.
2. **Convergegate** **API Validation**
   * The API validates the authentication credentials.
   * The API validates the structure and content of the request body against the endpoint’s schema.
3. **Processing**
   * The API executes the requested operation (e.g., create a transaction, check status, initiate refund).
   * If applicable, the API communicates with underlying payment networks or services.
4. **Response**
   * A JSON-formatted response is returned with:
     * `status` or `code` indicating success or failure.
     * Relevant data fields (such as transaction ID, status, timestamps).
     * Error details if the request failed validation or processing.

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**Visual Process Diagram:**

<figure><img src="https://215511601-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F4EdOyedBFKxAkeYE1SF1%2Fuploads%2FaHvMO4KubE6cGTM5fylB%2Fconvergegate%20flow%20example.png?alt=media&#x26;token=a057cdea-dbc6-4053-8c71-a67b887eaa62" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>