There are many methods to make money online, but out of them, Affiliate Marketing is considered the best home based business opportunity that the internet has brought to work from home moms, students and the elderly alike. The popularity of affiliate marketing is constantly growing and therefore many are quitting their day jobs.

However, before joining any affiliate program, some basic research on affiliate programs should be done. With an increase in the internet marketing business, many affiliate marketing networks are also growing in number.

Let me provide you with the list of top 5 affiliate marketing networks available online:

1. CLICK BANK:

ClickBank has over 20,000 digital products that you can promote to start earning through affiliate marketing. Commissions are as high as 75%. This is free for affiliates and very easy to set up. All you have to do is type the unique ClickBank ID you received when you signed up with them into the hyperlink and you’re done. There is no need to register and then wait for approval to promote any of the websites or informational products offered there. You can promote downloadable products and earn good income in a very short time. Checks are sent out like clockwork every 2 weeks.

2. PAYDOTCOM:

PayDotCom is a free marketplace for both affiliates and publishers. You can earn affiliate commissions of up to 80% by referring others to your products and services. The important feature of PayDotCom is that it allows communication between Affiliates and Merchants. Thus, PayDotCom enables you to get the required information on how to market the products effectively. The other advantage is that this affiliate marketing network program pays the commission through PayPal, which is easier to access.

3. JOINT COMMISSION:

Commission Junction is known for having the best affiliate marketing programs with companies that sell real tangible items. If you want to sell physical products instead of downloadable ones, Commission Junction would definitely be the best one to sign up for. But the problem with Commission Junction is that you have to register with each and every merchant and get their approval. Leaving this limitation, it is the best Affiliate Marketing Network program where you can find first class tangible products. It also makes things easier for members by consolidating all payments into one check.

4. SALE OF SHARES:

ShareASale is another affiliate marketing network that has more than 1000 merchants in its program. There is no need to pay fees to register the account and you have the flexibility to browse programs based on: Pay Per Click, Pay Per Lead, or Pay Per Sale. The affiliate network consists of different product categories ranging from art, automotive, books, business, career, clothing, cosmetics, media, etc. Many affiliates praise this network for its pro-affiliate and anti-parasitic attitude.

5. SHARED LINK:

LinkShare has more than 600 merchants in its affiliate network. Choose from categories like books, music, flowers, fashion, computers, etc. Here you will find some big name companies such as Dell, Nordstrom, Target, Disney and American Express.