Sifting through affiliate programs can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out, especially with so many networks claiming to be “beginner-friendly.” This post breaks down five networks worth knowing about, plus what to actually watch for with each one.
All five are free to join and don’t require an existing audience or sales history to get approved. Though as you’ll see below, that ease of entry isn’t the same thing as quality across the board.
What Is Affiliate Marketing?
Affiliate marketing is the process of earning a commission by promoting another company’s products or services. Most brands that run a program list it at the bottom of their website, so a quick scroll is often all it takes to find out if one exists.
This image is a screenshot from the footer of Reebok’s homepage. As you can see, many well-known brands link to their affiliate programs here. You can click the image and scroll to the bottom of the site to find the link yourself.
Clicking on “Become an Affiliate Partner” brings you to this page hosted by Rakuten Advertising, Reebok’s affiliate network manager.
If you’re new to affiliate marketing, don’t be discouraged if you don’t get accepted right away. Some programs may require proof of traffic or revenue. This is normal. Reebok’s is one such example, with a relatively high barrier for entry. This is why I recommend starting with beginner-friendly networks (like the ones listed in this post) while you build your audience.
For a more detailed guide on building a successful affiliate marketing business, check out our previous post: Affiliate Marketing Fundamentals.
Keep in mind that each company decides whether to offer a program at all, what qualifications are needed for approval, and whether they manage it directly or through a network.
5 Networks Beginners Should Know About
Affiliate networks act as a middleman, managing thousands of programs across different companies under one platform. Like the companies they represent, each network decides which programs it manages and who gets accepted into them.
ClickBank
ClickBank is one of the oldest and most recognizable affiliate networks, with a track record going back over 20 years. Approval is fast, the platform is straightforward to navigate, and commissions on many digital products run higher than what you’ll typically find with retail-based programs. If you want a full walkthrough before applying, our ClickBank tutorial covers how to land your first commission step by step. Join ClickBank to start browsing available offers.
WarriorPlus
WarriorPlus focuses heavily on internet marketing and “make money online” (MMO) style courses and software, so the products here are really only a fit if your audience overlaps with that niche. Approval is quick and the barrier to entry is low, but it’s worth browsing the marketplace first to confirm there’s an actual match before applying. Join WarriorPlus to see what’s currently available.
Digistore24
Digistore24 is a global network with a wide catalog spanning both digital and physical products. Unlike most networks on this list, it also offers recurring commissions on select subscription-based offers, which can add up to more than a one-time payout if you promote the right products. It’s beginner-friendly, with a simple application process. Join Digistore24 to start browsing programs.
MaxWeb
MaxWeb specializes in high-ticket products, primarily in the health and wellness space, with CPA (Cost Per Action) commissions that often run higher than standard retail affiliate payouts. The platform leans heavily on direct-response sales pages and video sales letters, which makes it a better fit for affiliates running paid traffic than for beginners promoting through a blog or organic content. Worth exploring the offer catalog first to see if it’s a genuine match. Join MaxWeb to browse current offers.
Amazon Associates
Amazon Associates is one of the most trusted affiliate programs, with access to millions of products across virtually any niche. Approval is easy and its massive catalog makes it a solid fit for beginners still narrowing down a niche. Note: you’ll need at least one verified sale within 180 days to keep your account active, so it’s worth having a promotion plan ready before you apply. For tips on getting the most from the program once you’re in, check out our guide: How Amazon Associates Works. Join Amazon Associates to start browsing products.
| Network | Best For | Commission Style | Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ClickBank | General digital products, beginners | Standard affiliate commissions | Product quality varies. Check Gravity score |
| WarriorPlus | “Make money online” niche specifically | Standard affiliate commissions | Narrow niche fit |
| Digistore24 | Global/physical + digital mix | Some recurring commissions | EU-based — tax/VAT handling may differ |
| MaxWeb | Health & wellness, paid traffic | High CPA payouts | Built for paid traffic, not organic beginners |
| Amazon Associates | Broad, undecided niches | Standard, lower rates | 1 sale required per 180 days |
FAQs About Affiliate Networks
Conclusion
Once you’ve chosen your affiliate marketing niche, these five networks are among the most accessible places to start. Fill out each application with your details, and most will approve you quickly, though a few may ask about your traffic or promotion plan first. Take your time exploring the product options, and lean toward the networks that genuinely fit your niche and audience over the ones with the flashiest commission numbers.
Take the first step today. Explore these networks, and start building your affiliate marketing business!
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