Hi all,

I am new to WordPress/PHP/JavaScript/SOAP/WooCommerce and need to build an eCommerce site using these technologies.

I come from an embedded C, C#.Net, MS SQL background and would like to confirm whether my chosen approach is the right one or at least a right way to go about this. I
think I have picked the most appropriate forum, apologies if not.

The site sells software. After a successful purchase has been made, the download link along with the product activation code should be emailed to the user.

To achieve this I think I need to:-

Download WordPress and then upload to a server – I’ve decided on Bluehost

Then download Apache, MySQL and PHP – WAMP
Build the CMS on my PC along with all pages required – several products to purchase along with Buy buttons
Install StoreFront WooCommerce Plugin
Write some JavaScript – an event listener that executes when the Buy button is pressed
The JavaScript makes a HTTPS request to a PHP Plugin (I will write) once the transaction has been confirmed.
The JavaScript passes on the Product Code
The PHP plugin then contacts a SOAP Web Service which returns a download link and an activation code to the PHP plugin.
Use the WP_Mail API to email the customer the download link and activation code

Upload the new version to Bluehost

I am also wondering whether all the above functionality can be achieved using WordPress.com and would that be a cheaper option.

Any advice much appreciated! Thanks in advance

There are a number of plugins to facilitate selling software and licenses; you don’t have to write this yourself.

Look at both WooCommerce and Easy Digital Downloads.