Affiliate marketing is a powerful and accessible way to generate income online, but success doesn’t just come from promoting random products. One of the most important decisions you’ll make on your affiliate journey is choosing whether—or when—to join an affiliate network. These networks serve as the bridge between you and the brands you want to promote.
As a member of Wealthy Affiliate, you already have access to world-class affiliate training, tools, and community support. But to fully tap into your earning potential, understanding how affiliate networks work—and how to use them strategically—is key.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before joining an affiliate network, including what they are, how they work, what to look for, and how to get accepted. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your affiliate portfolio, this article will help you make smart, informed decisions.
What Is an Affiliate Network?
An affiliate network is a third-party platform that connects affiliate marketers with brands and merchants offering affiliate programs. Rather than signing up individually with different companies, you can access a wide variety of offers through a single network.
Affiliate Networks Handle:
- Tracking affiliate links and cookies
- Managing commission payments
- Providing promotional tools (banners, text links, creatives)
- Reporting and analytics
- Vetting both affiliates and advertisers
Some of the most popular affiliate networks include:
PartnerStack
ShareASale
CJ Affiliate (formerly Commission Junction)
Impact
Rakuten Advertising
ClickBank
Affiliate Networks vs. Affiliate Programs
It’s important to note the difference between affiliate networks and affiliate programs:
- Affiliate Program: Run directly by the brand (e.g., the Wealthy Affiliate Affiliate Program).
- Affiliate Network: Aggregates multiple affiliate programs from different companies in one place.
Joining an affiliate network means more options and easier management, but sometimes slightly lower commissions compared to direct-to-brand programs.
Benefits of Joining an Affiliate Network
1. Access to Multiple Merchants
With just one account, you can apply to dozens or even hundreds of affiliate programs across different niches.
2. Centralized Tracking and Payments
No need to juggle logins and payment schedules. Affiliate networks handle payouts, often bundling commissions from multiple merchants.
3. Trust and Security
Reputable networks vet merchants, ensuring you’re partnering with trustworthy brands. They also offer reliable tracking systems.
4. Diverse Promotional Materials
Most networks provide banners, landing pages, text links, and other creatives to help you promote effectively.
5. Support and Resources
Many networks offer tutorials, account managers, and webinars to help affiliates optimize their strategies.
Potential Drawbacks to Be Aware Of
1. Application and Approval Process
Many merchants within networks require individual approval. You’ll need to prove your credibility with a quality site, active content, or a strong traffic source.
2. Payment Thresholds
Some networks have higher minimum payout limits, meaning you might wait longer to receive your first check.
3. Cookie Windows Can Vary
Some networks offer short cookie durations, reducing your chances of earning commissions from late purchases.
4. Lower Commission Rates (Sometimes)
Direct affiliate programs often offer higher commissions since there’s no middleman.
How to Prepare Before Joining an Affiliate Network
Before applying to any network, make sure you have a solid foundation. Here’s a checklist to help you stand out:
✅ Have a Website or Active Platform
Most networks require a professional-looking website, blog, or content platform (like YouTube or a podcast).
✅ Create Relevant Content
Your content should align with the products you want to promote. For example, if you want to promote tech gadgets, your site should include reviews, tutorials, or comparisons.
✅ Add Essential Pages
Make sure your site includes:
- About Me
- Contact Page
- Privacy Policy / Disclosure
- Terms and Conditions
✅ Generate Some Traffic
You don’t need thousands of visitors per day, but some traffic shows you’re active and serious. Wealthy Affiliate’s SEO and traffic training can help you get started quickly.
How to Apply to an Affiliate Network
While each network has its own process, the application process usually includes:
- Creating an Account
- Fill out your personal and business information
- Verify your identity and tax details
- Submitting Your Website or Promotional Platform
- Include links to your website, YouTube channel, or social profiles
- Explain how you plan to promote the offers
- Waiting for Approval
- Some approvals are instant, others take a few days
- Some programs may require additional information or manual review
- Applying to Individual Programs (within the network)
- Each merchant may require a separate approval within the network
Pro Tips:
- Use a professional email address (yourname@yourdomain.com)
- Avoid using “coming soon” pages or empty sites
- Be honest and specific in your application
- Focus on how you will add value to the merchant
Top Affiliate Networks to Join in 2025
1. ShareASale
- User-friendly interface
- Ideal for bloggers and niche site owners
- Strong merchants in fashion, health, home, and more
2. CJ Affiliate
- Well-established network
- Access to big brands (e.g., GoDaddy, Grammarly, Lowe’s)
- Excellent reporting tools
3. Impact
- Modern platform with powerful tracking
- Great for SaaS and tech-related offers
- Flexible payment schedules
4. ClickBank
- Focuses on digital products and online courses
- High commissions (up to 75%)
- Instant approval for most products
5. Rakuten Advertising
- Trusted by global brands
- Popular in finance, travel, and retail
- Strong security and tracking features
6. PartnerStack
- Focused on SaaS affiliate programs
- Recurring commissions
- Perfect for B2B audiences
How Wealthy Affiliate Helps You Succeed with Affiliate Networks
Joining an affiliate network is one thing—making money from it is another. This is where Wealthy Affiliate shines.
Here’s How WA Supports You:
- Step-by-step training: Learn how to build your website, grow traffic, and monetize content with affiliate links
- Website hosting & tools: Use SiteRubix to launch your professional affiliate site in minutes
- Keyword research tools: Find high-traffic, low-competition keywords with Jaaxy
- Live classes & webinars: Stay updated on industry trends and network strategies
- Community support: Ask questions, get feedback, and learn from other successful affiliates
If you’re aiming to get accepted into networks like CJ or ShareASale, the training and support at Wealthy Affiliate gives you a serious edge.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Joining Affiliate Networks
❌ Using a Low-Quality Website
A half-built or spammy-looking site will get you rejected quickly.
❌ Applying to Too Many Programs at Once
Focus on a few relevant merchants first, build quality content, then scale.
❌ Neglecting to Read the Terms
Each program has its own rules. Violating them—like using prohibited keywords—can get you banned.
❌ Promoting Everything and Anything
Stick to your niche and promote products that provide real value to your audience.
Final Thoughts: Is Joining an Affiliate Network Right for You?
Absolutely—if you’re ready.
Affiliate networks are an incredible resource for finding products, managing your promotions, and scaling your affiliate income. But it’s essential to have the right foundation: a niche, a website, some traffic, and a value-driven approach.
If you’re a member of Wealthy Affiliate, you’re already ahead of the game. Use the platform’s training and tools to build your authority, craft great content, and position yourself for success in any network you join.
So go ahead, do your research, pick the right networks, apply strategically, and always remember—value comes first, commissions follow. Your affiliate empire is waiting.
Hello, and thanks so much for the breakdown. I did not know there was a difference, but now you have made it clear to me. I believe these kinds of businesses is great because once you are a success, your lifestyle will change because of being in control of your time while making a great living. Thanks so much for sharing.
Hi there!
Thank you so much for your kind comment—I’m really glad the breakdown helped clarify things for you! That’s one of my favorite parts about affiliate marketing and online business in general: once you get it going, it really can open up a whole new level of freedom and flexibility.
You’re absolutely right—being in control of your time while creating a sustainable income is such a powerful combination. It takes effort and consistency, but the lifestyle shift it can bring is so worth it.
Wishing you all the best on your journey, and thanks again for being here and sharing your thoughts!