NOTE: This topic applies only to the .NET shopping cart. The ASP cart DOES NOT support this mode.
Overview:
The distributor mode of the cart allows a distributor to log in using the UserID and Password from their distributor account rather than a customer account. It provides a reliable method for resellers to purchase licenses and ensure they are properly linked to their distributor account. In this mode:
Distributor records must be specifically linked to a customer record to be able to log in
When the distributor logs in using their distributor credentials, the cart is associated with the linked customer as well as the distributor.
Enabling Distributor Mode
There are two ways distributor mode can be enabled:
Set the cart option "Display Distributor Login". This will cause the login page during checkout to always display and additional distributor/reseller login option along with the existing new/existing customer options. Using this option allows distributors to purchase without having to use specific links that include their DistributorID.
Set up distributor(s) to "Require cart Login". Setting this on a distributor record will force the distributor to login using their distributor credentials on any carts associated with the distributor. In this case, you must provide the distributor with a specific link that includes their DistributorID so the Distributor gets associated at cart creation and this rule is enforced.