Programs and affiliate networks

Find the right affiliate program for your audience

LinksAffiliate is a directory of affiliate programs and networks, organised by sector so that you can start from the subject of your site. Browse the categories on this page, for example adult, cryptocurrency, dating, ecommerce, web hosting, travel, finance or VPN, then open a review to see what the partner offers and where to apply.

Direct programs, networks and marketplaces

A direct program is run by a single merchant, such as a retailer, an exchange or a hosting company, and pays for the sales or signups you send to that merchant. An affiliate network such as Awin, Impact or Commission Junction sits between many advertisers and publishers: you apply once, then request access to the offers that fit your content. Large retailers and marketplaces, such as Amazon or the eBay Partner Network, run their own programs with their own rules.

Common commission models

• Pay per sale (PPS): a percentage or a fixed amount for each qualifying order.
• Pay per lead (PPL): a fixed amount for a qualifying action, such as a verified registration.
• Revenue share: a share of what the referred customer spends over time, common for subscriptions, cam sites and gaming.
• Hybrid: a combination, for example a fixed amount plus a share of later revenue.

The label matters less than the exact event that triggers a payment and the way refunds, chargebacks and inactive accounts are treated.

What to compare before you apply

• The action that earns a commission and how long a click stays attributed to you (the cookie or tracking window).
• The countries accepted and the permitted traffic sources, such as email, paid search, social media or adult traffic.
• The payment threshold, the payment frequency and the available payment methods.
• The approval process, the tracking tools and the level of reporting.
• Age, content and wording restrictions that apply to your sector.

Terms change without notice. Treat each review as a starting point and confirm the details in the partner’s current conditions before you publish a recommendation.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to join an affiliate program?

Most programs and networks are free to join, but many review each application and can refuse a site that does not fit their audience or traffic rules. Be careful with any program that asks you to pay in order to become an affiliate.

How do affiliates get paid?

Commissions are usually paid on a regular schedule, often monthly, once your balance reaches the program’s minimum threshold. The payment methods depend on the partner and may include bank transfer, PayPal or cryptocurrency.

Do I have to disclose my affiliate links?

Yes. In most countries you must tell readers when a link may earn you a commission. Add a clear note near the link or at the top of the page, as LinksAffiliate does on its own reviews.

Looking for advertising rather than commissions? See the ad networks directory, or read our guides to plan your next project.