Best Ways to Monetize Your Website in 2026 — Ads, Affiliates & Networks That Pay

If you’re running a website and want to earn real revenue — whether through display ads, affiliate partnerships, or hybrid monetization — this guide breaks down the best platforms and programs you can join today.

We’ll cover:

Ad Networks (display ads) Affiliate Programs (pay-per-sale or referral) Premium Monetization Platforms Tips to Maximize Earnings

✅ 1. Top Ad Networks to Earn Revenue From Your Site

Display advertising is one of the easiest ways to monetize traffic. These networks serve ads and pay you based on impressions (CPM) and clicks (CPC).

🟦 Google AdSense

One of the most popular ad networks in the world. Easy to set up and integrates with most CMS platforms.

🔗 Sign up here: https://www.google.com/adsense/start/

🟧 Media.net

Contextual ad network powered by Yahoo and Bing. Great alternative to AdSense.

🔗 Sign up here: https://www.media.net/signup/

🔵 Ezoic

AI-driven optimization platform that tests ad placements to increase revenue. Works well for blogs and niche sites.

🔗 Sign up here: https://www.ezoic.com/

🟩 Mediavine

Premium ad management for content creators with high traffic. Known for strong RPMs.

🔗 Apply here: https://www.mediavine.com/apply/

(Note: Mediavine typically requires minimum monthly traffic.)

🟥 AdThrive

Another premium ad network with excellent payout rates, especially for U.S.-based audiences.

🔗 Apply here: https://www.adthrive.com/apply/

🔶 PropellerAds

Good for push notifications, pop-unders, and display ads — often easier to get approved.

🔗 Sign up here: https://propellerads.com/

✅ 2. Best Affiliate Programs for Bloggers & Websites

Affiliate marketing allows you to place links or product recommendations that earn commission when someone buys or signs up.

🛒 Amazon Associates

The world’s largest affiliate program with products in almost every category.

🔗 Join here: https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/

🔗 ShareASale

A network that connects you with thousands of affiliate merchants across niches.

🔗 Sign up here: https://www.shareasale.com/

🤝 CJ Affiliate (formerly Commission Junction)

A top affiliate network with established brands and high-value offers.

🔗 Join here: https://www.cj.com/

🛍️ Impact

Flexible affiliate platform with influencers, brands, SaaS partners, and big retailers.

🔗 Sign up here: https://impact.com/

📦 ClickBank

Digital products, e-courses, and software with high commissions (often 50%+).

🔗 Join here: https://www.clickbank.com/affiliate/

🛒 Awin

An affiliate network with retail, travel, finance, and subscription partners.

🔗 Sign up here: https://www.awin.com/us

✅ 3. Premium & Hybrid Monetization Platforms

These combine ads, affiliate links, and optimization tools.

🔄 AdThrive & Mediavine

Both offer personalized optimization, better RPMs, and support — but have traffic requirements.

💡 Monetization Tips

To maximize earnings:

✔ Place ads above the fold and in content

✔ Use high-value affiliate links within relevant posts

✔ Write product reviews and resource pages

✔ Track performance with analytics & A/B testing

✔ Choose platforms that fit your traffic level and audience type

📌 Final Thoughts

Choosing the right mix of ad networks and affiliate programs depends on:

Your traffic volume Your audience type And the content niche

Begin with:

Google AdSense or Media.net for general monetization Affiliate programs that match your content Consider Ezoic / Mediavine / AdThrive once traffic grows