Affiliate networks [http://www.1webindex.com/categories/Affiliate-Networks/] are third parties that are under contract with companies so that they can sell products and services on the behalf of the company through the Internet. The payment of these networks takes place only if the visitor on the web site takes a pre-defined action such as a trial sign-up or the close of a sale. Let us take a closer look at the types of affiliate networks.
The Types
Open networks:
These are basically executed by third parties which are generally web site owners who strike a relationship between an advertiser and an affiliate. These are easy to launch and set-up, but it is very difficult to screen affiliates in an open market.
Private Networks
These are programs which are for you, created by you, and include groups of only vetted affiliates. They usually involve private affiliate networks or white hat agencies, who have scrutinized its members for integrity, experience and expertise. These networks are suitable for B2B marketers who have high value products, and for those who don't have any experience in affiliate marketing. Quantity and quality of actions that an affiliate gets are much higher and there are fewer chances of fraud in charge backs and returns, and can be easily recovered and negotiated. However, these types of affiliate networks have not proved beneficial for consumer products.
How to join Affiliate Networks
Affiliates, in fact do not require paying any kind of fee to join affiliate networks, but there can be some kind of fee levied on merchants willing to participate. Normal or conventional networks may charge a starting fee and may ask to pay fees for recurring membership.
Surviving in the affiliate networks requires a lot of patience and the proper approach. However, when properly planned, an executed affiliate network can prove beneficial to many people.