What is an affiliate link?

An affiliate link is a URL provided to affiliates by merchants or advertisers to track the traffic and sales generated through their promotional efforts.

When an affiliate joins an affiliate program, they are given unique affiliate links that contain a special tracking code or identifier. This tracking code allows the merchant to identify which affiliate referred the visitor and track their activity on the merchant's website.

Affiliate links typically redirect visitors to the merchant's website or a specific landing page where they can learn more about the product or service being promoted. If the visitor makes a purchase or completes a desired action (such as signing up for a newsletter) after clicking on the affiliate link, the affiliate earns a commission for that referral.

The tracking code embedded in the affiliate link is essential for accurately attributing sales and commissions to the respective affiliates, ensuring that they are properly compensated for their promotional efforts.

Affiliate links can be shared through various channels, including websites, blogs, social media platforms, email newsletters, and other marketing channels. They are often disguised using URL shorteners or link cloaking techniques to make them appear more user-friendly and less obtrusive to the audience.