According to the manual, Authorize_Aim requires: "You need a secure URL (SSL certificate) - because you will be asking customers for credit card info. We also do not recommend to use this on shared webhosting." Does this mean that I need a hosting account with a unique IP address? Is a static IP address the same thing? Thanks.
Please don't be offended; but if you're asking that, don't use Auth Aim. Stick with Auth SIM, Paypal, ClickBank, or another CC processor. In fact, asking about a "unique IP address" implies you still need to take some time to learn a bit more before even starting any type of site. Everyone and every server has a unique IP (and yes I'm ignoring proxies and other techniques and so should you for now). Use Google and learn about a dynamic vs. static IPs. A server needs a static IP. If you are using a hosting service you will have a static IP on a shared server (unless you're paying for a dedicated server). Learn about shared vs. dedicated servers. Compare storage, database, and bandwidth limits and how they fit your needs. B/c you're a newbie, learn about CMSs (look up the term CMS). I suggest Joomla, but there are others that may serve your particular needs better. You really need to plan your site layout, narrow your hosting choices, pick a CMS or go with normal html pages, etc. Deciding between Auth AIM or another processor should be toward the end of your decision making process. Good Luck with your project.
"Not using shared hosting" means you really should have your own dedicated server or virtual server so that you are not sharing the server with anyone else. That generally gives you a lot more flexibility in setup and control, gives you dedicated IP addresses to use and allows you to send out email without breaking the terms of service of most shared hosting. But... running your own dedicated server does mean a big step up in technical knowledge required and can be a little daunting at first. To set up Authorize_AIM you'll need to purchase and install a secure certificate on a dedicated IP address for that website. If you are on a shared web host they may be able to supply you a dedicated IP address for an extra fee and install a secure certificate for you.
This is untrue. Virtual hosting allows many websites to share the same IP. Many ISPs also have many users behind the same IP. AOL for instance was like that and may still be like that. The original poster's question is valid. Having credit card info on a shared server is a potential security risk.