What is an affiliate network?
Quick answer
An affiliate network is a platform that connects merchants (advertisers) with affiliates (publishers). Networks handle tracking, reporting, and payments so both parties can focus on growing their business.
An affiliate network acts as an intermediary between merchants who want to promote their products and affiliates who earn commissions by driving sales or leads.
Key functions of an affiliate network:
Tracking — Networks provide tracking technology (cookies, pixels, server-to-server postbacks) to accurately attribute sales to the right affiliate.
Payments — Instead of each merchant handling payouts individually, the network consolidates earnings and pays affiliates on a regular schedule.
Discovery — Affiliates can browse hundreds or thousands of programs in one place, making it easier to find relevant offers.
Reporting — Both merchants and affiliates get dashboards with performance data, conversion metrics, and earnings reports.
Trust — Networks vet merchants and affiliates, reducing fraud and ensuring both sides are legitimate.
Popular examples include ShareASale, CJ Affiliate, Impact, Awin, and Rakuten Advertising. Each network has different strengths in terms of verticals, payout methods, and tracking capabilities.