Updated on December 15, 2024
Choosing the right affiliate network can make or break your affiliate marketing career. With hundreds of networks available, each promising high commissions and reliable payouts, how do you separate the genuine opportunities from the noise?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to select an affiliate network that aligns with your goals, niche, and business model. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced marketer looking to diversify your income streams, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
An affiliate network serves as an intermediary between affiliate marketers (publishers) and companies looking to promote their products or services (advertisers or merchants). Think of it as a marketplace where advertisers list their affiliate programs and publishers can browse, apply, and join multiple programs from a single dashboard.
The network handles the technical infrastructure—tracking clicks, conversions, and commissions—while also managing the financial transactions between parties. This eliminates the need for individual agreements with each merchant and provides a layer of trust and accountability for both sides.
Key functions of an affiliate network include:
Not all affiliate networks are created equal. Understanding the different types will help you identify which ones are most relevant to your marketing strategy and niche.
1. Traditional Affiliate Networks
These are the classic networks that connect publishers with a wide variety of merchants across multiple industries. They typically offer CPA (Cost Per Action), CPS (Cost Per Sale), and CPL (Cost Per Lead) models. Examples include CJ Affiliate, ShareASale, and Rakuten Advertising. These networks are ideal for content creators and bloggers who want access to diverse product categories.
2. CPA Networks
CPA (Cost Per Action) networks focus specifically on lead generation and action-based offers. Affiliates earn when users complete specific actions like signing up for a free trial, submitting an email address, or downloading an app. These networks often have more aggressive offers but require careful compliance with their terms.
3. Revenue Share Networks
Revenue share (RevShare) networks offer ongoing commissions based on the lifetime value of referred customers. Instead of a one-time payment, you earn a percentage of the revenue generated by your referrals over time. This model is particularly lucrative for subscription-based services, SaaS products, and recurring billing businesses. If you're promoting products with recurring revenue models, dedicated RevShare networks can offer significantly better terms than traditional networks.
4. Sub-Affiliate Networks
These networks allow you to earn commissions not just from your own referrals, but also from the referrals made by affiliates you recruit. This multi-tier structure can significantly amplify your earnings if you're good at building and managing a team.
5. Niche-Specific Networks
Some networks focus exclusively on specific industries like finance, health, technology, or gaming. These specialized networks often have deeper relationships with merchants in their niche and can offer better terms and support for affiliates working in those areas.
6. Direct Affiliate Programs
While not technically networks, many companies run their own in-house affiliate programs. These can offer better commission rates since there's no network fee, but they require you to manage multiple relationships and payment schedules.
Selecting the right affiliate network requires careful evaluation of multiple factors. Here's what you should prioritize in your decision-making process:
Reputation and Track Record
The network's reputation is paramount. Research how long they've been in business, read reviews from other affiliates, and check forums and communities for feedback. A network with a solid track record is more likely to pay on time, provide reliable tracking, and treat affiliates fairly. Look for networks that have been operating for at least 3-5 years and have established relationships with reputable brands.
Quality of Advertisers
The value of a network is largely determined by the quality of merchants on its platform. Look for networks that partner with well-known brands and reputable companies. High-quality advertisers typically have better conversion rates, longer cookie durations, and more attractive commission structures. They also tend to have lower reversal rates, meaning more of your earned commissions will actually be paid out.
Commission Rates and Structures
Compare commission rates across different networks for similar products or services. However, don't just chase the highest percentage—consider the overall value. A 5% commission on a $1,000 product is worth more than a 50% commission on a $10 product. Also consider whether the network offers performance bonuses or tiered commission structures that reward top performers.
Cookie Duration
Cookie duration determines how long after a click you can still earn a commission if the user makes a purchase. Standard cookie durations range from 24 hours to 90 days, with some programs offering lifetime cookies. Longer cookie durations are especially important for products with longer consideration cycles, like high-ticket items or B2B services.
Tracking Accuracy
Reliable tracking is the backbone of affiliate marketing. The network should use robust tracking technology that accurately attributes conversions, even in today's complex, multi-device customer journeys. Look for networks that offer server-side tracking, cross-device attribution, and first-party cookie solutions to combat tracking challenges posed by browser privacy updates.
User Interface and Reporting
You'll be spending a lot of time in the network's dashboard, so it should be intuitive and easy to navigate. Good reporting tools are essential for optimizing your campaigns—look for real-time statistics, detailed conversion reports, and the ability to export data for further analysis.
Geographic Coverage
If you have an international audience, ensure the network supports global traffic and offers programs that accept traffic from your key markets. Some networks are heavily focused on specific regions, which may or may not align with your audience demographics.
Different commission structures suit different marketing strategies and business models. Understanding these will help you choose programs that align with your strengths and goals.
Getting paid reliably and on time is crucial for any business. Here's what to evaluate regarding payment terms:
Payment Threshold
Most networks have a minimum payout threshold—the amount you need to earn before you can withdraw your commissions. This typically ranges from $25 to $100. Lower thresholds are better, especially when you're starting out, as they allow you to access your earnings sooner. Some premium networks have higher thresholds, so factor this into your decision.
Payment Frequency
Networks pay on different schedules—weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or even quarterly. More frequent payments improve your cash flow, which is especially important if affiliate marketing is your primary income source. The industry standard is monthly payments, typically processed around the 15th or end of the month.
Payment Methods
Check which payment methods the network supports. Common options include:
Consider which methods are available in your country and what fees may be associated with each. Some networks charge fees for certain payment methods, which can eat into your earnings.
Payment Hold Period
Most networks have a hold period (also called lock period or pending period) between when a commission is earned and when it becomes available for payout. This protects against fraudulent transactions and refunds. Typical hold periods range from 30 to 90 days. Shorter hold periods mean faster access to your money.
Currency Options
If you're based outside the US, check whether the network pays in your local currency or if you'll need to deal with currency conversion. Some networks offer multi-currency support, which can save you money on exchange fees.
In an era of increasing privacy regulations and browser restrictions on third-party cookies, tracking technology has become more important than ever. Here's what to look for:
First-Party Tracking
Networks using first-party cookies are better positioned to track conversions accurately, as these cookies are less affected by browser privacy features. This is becoming the industry standard as third-party cookies are phased out.
Server-Side Tracking
Also known as S2S (server-to-server) tracking, this method doesn't rely on browser cookies at all. Instead, it uses postback URLs to communicate conversion data directly between servers. This is the most reliable tracking method available and is essential for serious affiliate marketers.
Cross-Device Attribution
Modern consumers often browse on one device and purchase on another. Networks with cross-device tracking can attribute conversions that occur across multiple devices to the correct affiliate, ensuring you get credit for all the sales you generate.
Attribution Models
Different networks use different attribution models to determine which affiliate gets credit for a conversion:
Most networks use last-click attribution, but understanding the model helps you strategize your marketing approach accordingly.
The level of support a network provides can significantly impact your success, especially when you're starting out or scaling your operations.
Dedicated Affiliate Managers
The best networks assign dedicated affiliate managers to help you succeed. These professionals can provide personalized advice, negotiate better rates, give you early access to new offers, and help resolve issues quickly. Having a direct contact who understands your business is invaluable.
Training and Education
Look for networks that invest in affiliate education. This might include webinars, tutorials, guides, case studies, and best practice documentation. Networks that help their affiliates improve their skills typically see better performance from their publisher base.
Creative Assets
Quality promotional materials make your job easier. Good networks provide a variety of banners, text links, product feeds, and other creative assets that are regularly updated and optimized for conversions.
Technical Support
When tracking issues arise or you need help with integration, responsive technical support is essential. Check if the network offers multiple support channels (email, phone, live chat) and what their typical response times are.
Community and Networking
Some networks facilitate connections between affiliates through forums, events, or exclusive communities. These can be valuable for learning from peers, finding collaboration opportunities, and staying informed about industry trends.
The best affiliate network for you depends largely on your niche and the types of products you promote. Here's a breakdown of top networks by category to help you find the perfect fit:
Best for E-commerce and Retail
If you're promoting physical products, fashion, home goods, or general consumer merchandise, established e-commerce networks are your best bet. CJ Affiliate (formerly Commission Junction) is one of the largest and most respected networks, partnering with major brands like GoPro, Lowe's, and Office Depot. They offer excellent reporting tools and a vast selection of merchants across virtually every product category.
Awin is another powerhouse for e-commerce affiliates, particularly strong in Europe but with a growing US presence. They work with over 21,000 advertisers including Etsy, HP, and Under Armour. Their user-friendly interface and global reach make them ideal for affiliates with international audiences.
ShareASale (now part of Awin) remains a favorite among bloggers and content creators for its ease of use and diverse merchant base. They're particularly strong in fashion, home and garden, and specialty niches.
Best for SaaS and Software
When it comes to promoting software and subscription services, general e-commerce networks often fall short. SaaS products have unique characteristics—recurring billing, high customer lifetime value, and longer sales cycles—that require specialized networks.
For SaaS affiliates, dedicated RevShare networks offer significantly better terms than traditional CPA networks. RevShare.so specializes in exactly this space, offering industry-leading recurring commission rates, true lifetime payouts, and a curated selection of high-quality software programs. While CJ and Awin might offer one-time payments of $50-100 for software signups, dedicated RevShare networks can pay 20-40% of the customer's subscription fee for as long as they remain a customer—which can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars per referral over time.
Impact is also worth considering for tech and SaaS, as they power the affiliate programs for companies like Shopify, Canva, and Uber. Their technology-first approach appeals to more technical affiliates.
Best for Finance and Insurance
Financial products typically offer the highest payouts but require networks with strong compliance support. FlexOffers and MaxBounty have strong finance verticals with credit cards, loans, and insurance products. Be prepared for more rigorous approval processes and content requirements in this heavily regulated space.
Best for Travel
Travelpayouts is the go-to network for travel bloggers, aggregating programs from Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and major airlines. CJ Affiliate and Awin also have strong travel verticals with luxury hotels and tour operators.
Best for Digital Products and Courses
ClickBank remains a solid choice for digital products, offering commissions up to 75% on ebooks, courses, and software. Rakuten Advertising works with major brands and offers robust tracking, though they're more selective about which affiliates they accept.
The Bottom Line: Match your network to your niche. E-commerce affiliates should start with CJ Affiliate or Awin for their vast merchant selection. SaaS and subscription-focused marketers should explore dedicated RevShare networks like RevShare.so for better recurring commission structures. And if you're in a specialized vertical like finance or travel, seek out networks with deep expertise in that area.
Not all affiliate networks are trustworthy. Here are warning signs that should make you think twice before joining:
1. Unrealistic Commission Promises
If a network is promising commissions that seem too good to be true, they probably are. Be skeptical of claims like "earn $1,000 per sale" or "guaranteed income." Legitimate networks are transparent about realistic earnings expectations.
2. Poor or Non-Existent Reviews
Do your research. If you can't find any reviews from real affiliates, or if the reviews are overwhelmingly negative, proceed with caution. Check affiliate marketing forums, social media groups, and review sites for honest feedback.
3. Lack of Transparency
Reputable networks are transparent about their terms, commission structures, and policies. If important information is hidden or vague, it's a red flag. Watch out for networks that don't clearly explain their tracking methods, payment schedules, or reversal policies.
4. High Reversal Rates
Some networks are known for "shaving" commissions—not crediting affiliates for all legitimate sales. If you notice significant discrepancies between your tracking and the network's reported conversions, or hear reports of high reversal rates, be wary.
5. Payment Issues
Late payments, unexplained payment holds, or constantly changing payment terms are serious red flags. Research the network's payment history and look for complaints about non-payment.
6. Poor Communication
If it's difficult to get in touch with support or your affiliate manager before you've even joined, imagine how challenging it will be when you need help with a real issue. Good networks are responsive from the start.
7. Restrictive or Unclear Terms
Read the terms of service carefully. Some networks have overly restrictive policies that make it easy for them to terminate your account or withhold commissions. Be especially wary of clauses that allow the network to change terms retroactively.
8. Requiring Payment to Join
Legitimate affiliate networks don't charge affiliates to join. If a network asks for an upfront fee, membership dues, or "activation costs," it's almost certainly a scam. You should be earning money, not paying it.
Different niches have unique characteristics that should influence your network choice. Here's guidance for some popular verticals:
Finance and Investing
Finance offers some of the highest-paying affiliate programs, but also comes with stricter regulations. Look for networks that specialize in financial services and have strong compliance support. Expect longer approval processes and more stringent content requirements. Revenue share models are particularly lucrative in this space due to the high lifetime value of financial service customers.
Software and SaaS
SaaS affiliate programs are ideal for recurring commissions. Many software companies offer 20-40% lifetime revenue share, making this one of the most profitable niches for long-term income. Unlike e-commerce where CJ Affiliate and Awin dominate, the SaaS space is better served by dedicated RevShare networks that specialize in recurring commission structures. Impact is also strong here, powering programs for major tech companies like Shopify and Canva.
E-commerce and Retail
For physical products and retail, the big networks shine. CJ Affiliate and Awin have the largest selection of e-commerce merchants, from major department stores to specialty boutiques. Amazon Associates remains popular despite lower commission rates because of its unmatched conversion rates. ShareASale is excellent for niche retailers and smaller brands that may offer better commission percentages than the big-box stores.
Health and Wellness
This lucrative niche requires careful attention to regulations and advertising restrictions. Look for networks that vet their health-related advertisers and provide compliant creative materials. Subscription-based health products (supplements, meal kits, fitness apps) can offer excellent recurring commissions.
Gaming and iGaming
Gaming affiliate programs, particularly for online casinos and sports betting, can offer very high payouts but come with significant legal restrictions depending on your location and audience. Specialized gaming networks understand these complexities and can help you navigate compliance requirements.
Education and Online Courses
The e-learning boom has created numerous opportunities in this space. Commission rates are typically high (20-50%), and many programs offer recurring commissions for subscription-based learning platforms. Look for networks with strong education verticals or consider direct partnerships with course creators.
Travel
Travel affiliate programs range from booking commissions to travel insurance and credit cards. This niche is highly seasonal and was significantly impacted by recent global events, but it's recovering. Look for networks with diverse travel offerings so you can promote multiple products to the same audience.
Ready to join an affiliate network? Here's a step-by-step guide to getting started:
Once you've chosen your network and programs, here are strategies to maximize your affiliate income:
Focus on Quality Over Quantity
It's tempting to join dozens of programs, but successful affiliates typically focus on a handful of programs they know deeply. Understanding a product thoroughly allows you to create more compelling content and better serve your audience.
Prioritize Recurring Commissions
One-time commissions require constant hustle to maintain income. Revenue share and recurring commission programs let you build compounding income over time. If you're promoting SaaS or subscription products, seek out programs that offer true lifetime commissions rather than just first-month payouts.
Track and Optimize
Use the network's reporting tools and your own analytics to understand what's working. Track which content, traffic sources, and products generate the most revenue. Double down on winners and cut underperformers.
Build Relationships
Get to know your affiliate manager and the merchants you promote. Strong relationships can lead to exclusive deals, higher commission rates, and early access to new offers.
Diversify Strategically
While focus is important, having multiple income streams protects you if a program changes terms or shuts down. Work with 2-3 complementary networks and maintain a portfolio of programs across different merchants.
Stay Compliant
Follow FTC guidelines by clearly disclosing your affiliate relationships. Compliance protects you legally and builds trust with your audience. Transparent affiliates typically see higher conversion rates because their recommendations feel authentic.
Continuously Learn and Adapt
Affiliate marketing is constantly evolving. Stay updated on industry trends, new tracking technologies, and changes in consumer behavior. Invest in your education through courses, conferences, and networking with other affiliates.
Choosing the right affiliate network is a crucial decision that will significantly impact your success as an affiliate marketer. By considering factors like reputation, commission structures, tracking technology, payment reliability, and support resources, you can find networks that align with your goals and set you up for long-term success.
Remember, the best affiliate network for you depends on your specific niche, audience, and business model. E-commerce affiliates will thrive with networks like CJ Affiliate and Awin, which offer access to thousands of retail merchants. SaaS and software marketers should explore dedicated RevShare networks for better recurring commission structures. Finance affiliates need networks with strong compliance support, while travel bloggers benefit from specialized platforms like Travelpayouts.
Don't be afraid to work with multiple networks simultaneously. Many successful affiliates maintain accounts on 2-3 complementary networks, choosing the best program for each product they promote. This diversification also protects you if a program changes terms or shuts down unexpectedly.
Whatever network you choose, remember that affiliate marketing success comes from providing genuine value to your audience. Focus on recommending products you truly believe in, create helpful content, and build trust with your readers. The commissions will follow naturally when you prioritize your audience's needs.