E-commerce, abbreviated as electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services over the internet or through electronic means. E-commerce includes electronic transactions between businesses (B2B), between businesses and consumers (B2C), or among consumers themselves (C2C). It has become a significant part of the global economy, transforming the way people shop and conduct business.

Key components of e-commerce include:

1. Online Stores: Companies can establish digital stores, also known as e-commerce websites or online marketplaces, where customers can browse and purchase products or services.

2. Electronic Payment Systems: E-commerce relies on electronic payment methods such as credit cards, digital wallets, and online banking services to facilitate secure payment transactions.

3. Digital Marketing: Online advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, and email marketing are utilized to attract customers to e-commerce platforms.

4. Logistics and Fulfillment: Effective shipping and delivery systems are crucial for e-commerce businesses to send products to customers. This may involve using third-party logistics providers (3PL) or in-house fulfillment centers.

5. Security and Privacy: Ensuring the security of customer data and online payment transactions is crucial to build trust in e-commerce platforms. This includes the use of encryption and robust digital security measures.

6. Mobile Commerce (M-commerce): With the widespread use of smartphones and mobile applications, customers can also shop and make purchases using mobile devices, expanding the scope of e-commerce.

7. E-commerce offers numerous advantages, including convenience, a wider range of product choices, and the ability to shop from anywhere at any time. It has also opened opportunities for companies to reach a global customer base, reduce overhead costs associated with physical stores, and gather valuable customer data for personalized marketing.