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What Happens Behind the Scenes When I Click an Affiliate Link?

You’re reading a blog or scrolling through a product review, and you spot a link that says something like “Check the price here” or “Buy now.” You click it.

The page opens. You shop. Maybe you buy something.

But have you ever wondered what’s happening behind the scenes when you click an affiliate link?

Affiliate marketing may sound complicated, but it’s surprisingly simple when you understand the basics. In this blog, we’ll break it down in easy terms — so the next time you click, you’ll know exactly what’s going on.

 

First, What Is an Affiliate Link?

An affiliate link is a special type of link that tracks your visit from one website (like a blog or deal site) to a brand’s store.

It looks like a normal link, but it contains a tracking code that tells the store,

“Hey, this visitor came from TrandyReviews!”

If you buy something after clicking that link, the blogger or site you came from may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

 

What Happens Technically?

Let’s simplify the process step by step:

1.    You click an affiliate link on TrandyReviews.com

2.    Your browser is quickly redirected to the product page (often through a tracking network)

3.    During that redirection, a cookie (a tiny file) is placed in your browser

4.    The cookie stores info like:

o    Where did you come from (affiliate site)

o    Which link did you click

o    A time stamp of your visit

5.    If you make a purchase — whether immediately or within a set number of days (like 7 or 30) — the brand tracks that back to TrandyReviews

6.    The site earns a small commission for referring you

 

Does This Cost You Anything?

Nope. Not a single cent more.

Affiliate commissions come from the company’s marketing budget, not from your pocket. You pay the same price whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the brand’s site.

Thanks to coupon and deal sites like TrandyReviews, you often pay less, since we help you find active discounts, bundles, and limited-time offers.

 

Why Do Sites Use Affiliate Links?

Affiliate links are how many blogs, YouTube channels, and review platforms stay free to use.

Instead of charging visitors or showing pop-up ads everywhere, they earn small rewards when you click and shop through their links. It’s a win-win setup:

  • You get trusted advice and deals
  • The creator earns support if you buy
  • The brand gets a new customer

It’s a cleaner, more value-driven way to monetize content.

 

How Can You Tell If It’s an Affiliate Link?

Sometimes it’s clearly labeled (“affiliate link” or “we may earn a commission”). Other times, it might just look like a normal product link, but still include a tracking code.

If you want to be sure:

  • Hover over the link and check if there’s a referral ID in the URL
  • Look for a disclaimer in the blog footer or sidebar

At TrandyReviews.com, transparency is key. We believe in showing only the best products and deals — and earning your trust along the way.

 

Final Thought

Clicking an affiliate link doesn’t cost you anything. It often saves you money while helping support the people who bring you helpful guides, reviews, and discount offers.

So next time you click on a product link from a site like TrandyReviews, you’ll know:

  • Who’s involved
  • How it works
  • And why it helps keep trusted recommendations online

Affiliate marketing works best when it's honest, helpful, and clear — and that’s the kind of experience we’re proud to offer every day.

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