How to Track Affiliate Links

Tracking affiliate links starts with consistent naming and source identifiers, but useful measurement happens only when clicks can be connected to conversions and revenue.

Build a naming system

Use stable campaign, source, placement and creative identifiers. Avoid changing parameter meanings from campaign to campaign because inconsistent naming makes comparison unreliable.

Use sub-IDs intentionally

Sub-IDs are useful for traffic source, placement, creative and audience breakdowns. Keep the taxonomy small enough that it remains readable in reports.

Connect the conversion

The ideal workflow ties a click identifier to the downstream sale or lead through a postback, API, pixel or imported conversion record.

Validate redirects

Check that tracking links redirect quickly, preserve required affiliate parameters and do not strip the network’s own tracking data.