As the evolution of technology goes on, there will always be a demand for useful software solutions.

Then, is it possible to get a significant passive income from software affiliate programs?

Absolutely!

But to make this a reality, partnering with the best programs is key.

Don’t panic if you’re clueless. We’re here for one reason: offering you lucrative options to help you end up choosing suitable ones.

Are you curious about which brands will be on our list? We bet you’ll recognize many of the names.

Without further ado! Let’s join this exploration with us!

Top 13 Software Affiliate Programs That Pay High Commissions

My Choice Software

Software Affiliate Programs 1

Founded over ten years ago, this is a go-to source for home, business, and student software needs. Whether you’re looking to streamline your business or empower your education, My Choice Software is there to assist you in making the best decision.

What sets this platform apart as a reliable destination to promote to your audience?

As for the products it sells, it covers everything from Microsoft Office to Windows Server and beyond. Its software is licensed from the top software companies in the world, and it guarantees to offer competitive prices for customers of all levels.

But you know what?

My Choice Software takes pride in offering more than just software. It provides valuable resources, including expert guidance and customer support, to help customers make informed choices.

So, we have quite a good start in this adventure. A trusted brand with a variety of product offerings.

What’s your commission?

My Choice Software has a tier payout structure, depending on the sales volume you’ve generated.

There are four levels, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. You can expect a rate of up to 8% per sale.

Its online application is always open for you. If you’re interested, sign up via ShareASale – a reputable affiliate network.

  • Commission rate: up to 8% per sale
  • Cookie duration: 89 days
  • Payment methods: Check, Direct Deposit, Wire, and Payoneer
  • Payment threshold: $50

Qustodio

Software Affiliate Programs 2

In an age where children are increasingly exposed to the internet and digital devices, Qustodio has offered a safe move. It has a range of features to ensure a safer and healthier online environment for kids.

For example, Qustodio lets parents restrict their kids’ access to harmful and inappropriate websites and apps.

Additionally, they can also decide how much time their children can spend on these applications.

What’s more? For parents concerned about their child’s whereabouts, Qustodio offers a GPS tracking option. Fantastic, isn’t it?

Qustodio is compatible with various operating systems, making it versatile and accessible on multiple devices, be it smartphones, tablets, or computers.

The software is now reaching over 6 million users across 180 countries. By joining as an affiliate, you can help boost its popularity and reach.

Join the Awin network to start applying. Once approved, start promoting Qustodio premium plans to earn up to 20% per sale.

The program provides continuous assistance by giving you numerous options for marketing materials and special promotions.

Plus, it also rewards top performers. A perfect way to inspire affiliates!

  • Commission rate: up to 20% commission on all sales
  • Cookie duration: 60 days
  • Payment methods: SEPA , ACH, BACH, domestic payments, and international wire transfers
  • Payment threshold: $20

Norton Software

Software Affiliate Programs 3

One name that has stood the test of time and continues to be a trusted guardian against cyber threats is Norton.

It’s designed to protect computers and other devices from a wide range of online threats, such as viruses, spyware, and ransomware.

What’s unique about Norton?

This antivirus software is like your trusted guide on the internet. It does more than merely sit idly by and scan your system for threats. It actively watches over your device in real-time.

What does this mean?

Norton can identify and halt malicious software before it can harm your computer or other devices.

Worried about losing your data? It won’t be a nightmare anymore. Norton offers cloud backup services, allowing you to store your important files and data in the cloud securely.

In 2017, Norton acquired LifeLock – a brand in the same computer security industry. With its affiliate program, you can earn a generous payout of 20% on qualifying sales.

Affiliates can also take advantage of the company’s exclusive promotions. They’re for helping you drive more sales.

  • Commission rate: 20% per sale
  • Cookie duration: 30 days
  • Payment methods: direct deposit or Payoneer
  • Payment threshold: $50

Intuit Quickbooks

Software Affiliate Programs 4

Looking to promote accounting and financial management tools? This is an ideal option.

QuickBooks is a trusted accounting solution for millions of businesses worldwide, from startups to long-established ones.

For this credibility, customers are more likely to trust and engage with a product that carries the QuickBooks name.

As an affiliate, you can also benefit from the company’s variety of features, such as accounting, taxes, invoicing, or payroll. This diversity allows you to promote the solution that best fits the needs of your target audience.

Now, it’s time to dive into its affiliate program.

QuickBooks allows any US-based affiliates to apply to be its partner as long as they have a related website.

You’ll sign up via Commission Junction. This network is also responsible for paying you every month.

So, how much can you get?

This program offers commissions based on its product types.

Particularly, you can earn up to 10% commission for QuickBooks supplies and software products.

If your visitor pays for an Intuit online payroll or signs up for a trial version of an online edition, QuickBooks will pay you $25.

  • Commission rate:
Intuit Product Commission Rate
QuickBooks Software Product 7% – Where monthly net sales are $01-$10,000

10% – Where monthly net sales are >$10,001

QuickBooks Online Edition $25 Bounty for each trial version
Intuit Online Payroll $25 per paid subscription
QuickBooks Supplies 10% of order
  • Cookie duration: 30 days
  • Payment methods: direct deposit or Payoneer
  • Payment threshold: $50

Dashlane

Software Affiliate Programs 5

If you’re looking for security products and services in high demand, Dashlane is here for you.

Many people struggle with keeping track of numerous passwords. It’s time to let them meet their digital guardian.

Dashlane is a password manager that takes your online security to a whole new level.

Imagine never having to remember complex passwords or manually fill out login forms. Dashlane does it all for you, from generating secure passwords to using them across all of your online accounts.

But you know what? Dashlane goes much beyond the role of a simple password manager.

This software can protect you with its dark web monitoring service. It alerts you if your login credentials have been compromised in a data breach.

Besides, you can share passwords and account access with trusted contacts in a secure and straightforward way.

We bet your audience would be interested in this type of product. If you promote Dashlane’s paid subscription successfully, you can receive a payout of 25%. Plus, a fixed $2 commission will be applied for each account signing up.

  • Commission rate: $2 per account signup; 25% per paid subscription.
  • Cookie duration: 24 hours
  • Payment methods: revealed once registered
  • Payment threshold: revealed once registered

Autodesk

Software Affiliate Programs 6

Welcome to Autodesk, the industry leader in engineering, 3D design, and construction software.

Why Promote Autodesk?

Well, the company offers a versatile range of software products suitable for various industries.

For example, it has AutoCAD, which is perfect for architects, engineers, and designers in need of precise 2D and 3D design tools.

Fusion 360 is another top-selling product, ideal for mechanical and product engineers. Or you might’ve heard about 3ds Max – a widely-used 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software.

Again, CJ Affiliates hosts this affiliate program. Thus, apply to be a CJ publisher if you want to start promoting Autodesk’s world-class software products.

Affiliates can always count on the company for constantly updated promotions, product feeds, and the support of attentive affiliate managers.

If a visitor purchases from your referral link, Autodesk will pay you a 7% commission. Please note that only those original sales transactions are qualified.

You might think 7% is a low rate. But remember that the cutting-edge AutoDesk products often come at a hefty price tag.

For instance, if your audience subscribes to the yearly AutoCard, priced at $1,975, you’ll get nearly $140. What if you promote 10 successful orders in a month? That’s a huge earning!

  • Commission rate: 7% on all new subscriptions
  • Cookie duration: 60 days
  • Payment methods: direct deposit or Payoneer
  • Payment threshold: $50

Adobe

Software Affiliate Programs 7

A brand that requires no introduction! But we’ll make it short.

Founded in 1982, Adobe has gradually become a leading name in the world of design, creativity, and digital content.

It offers an extensive range of software. Some popular ones are Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, Acrobat, and more.

Whether you are in the creative niche, technology space, or any other industry, there’s room for Adobe in your affiliate strategy.

Partnering with Adobe presents a golden opportunity for affiliate marketers who want to promote high-quality, in-demand products to their audience. With a brand as trusted and recognized as Adobe, you’re in a prime position to convert your referrals into satisfied customers.

How about your rewards?

Currently, Adobe is offering two commission plans: one for its Creative Cloud & Document Cloud; the other is for Adobe Stock. How much you earn depends on the subscription package of your referred clients.

For instance, if they sign up for a monthly subscription to a Creative Cloud product, you’ll receive 85% of their first-month payment. If it’s the Adobe Stock, the payout is $72.

The detailed commission structure is included in the table below.

  • Commission rate:
  • For Creative Cloud & Document Cloud
Condition Commission
Monthly subscriptions 85% of the first month
Yearly subscriptions (monthly payment) 85% of the first month
Annual subscriptions (one-time payment) 8.33% of the first year
  • For Adobe Stock
Condition Commission
Monthly subscriptions $72
Yearly subscriptions (monthly payment) $72
Single purchase (one-time payment) 8.33%
3 standard assets a month (monthly payment) 85% of the first month
  • Cookie duration: 30 days
  • Payment methods: electronic funds transfer or PayPal
  • Payment threshold: $30

Stellar Data Recovery

Software Affiliate Programs 8

Stellar Data Recovery has been at the forefront of data recovery for about two decades. The company has reached over three million satisfied customers worldwide. It’s also trusted by the most reputable companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, Coca-Cola, FedEx, and IBM.

Stellar provides a diverse portfolio of data recovery software solutions catering to different data loss scenarios. Whether it’s accidental file deletion or disk formatting, Stellar has a product for you.

Data loss can happen to anyone. By partnering with Stellar, you can become the savior of your audience.

Want to hear good news?

Stellar’s commissions are among the highest in the industry. It pays affiliates based on their performance. But you surefire get a 30% commission after signing up. Then, you can expect the highest rate of 50%. Stellar has disclosed that affiliates can earn up to $350 per sale. That’s impressive!

Even better? The generous 90-day cookie lifespan and high conversion rate of 2% promise better earnings.

Is this all you can get? Absolutely not!

Stellar takes pride in its committed affiliate executive and an extensive source of promotional materials.

Becoming its partner, you’ll receive regular updates about creatives or promotions via email.

Ready to take the first step? Join the Stellar affiliate program via CJ or Avangate and start earning commissions!

  • Commission rate:
    • Entry level: 30% per sale
    • Performing affiliates (sales over $8,000 per month): 40% per sale
    • Powerful affiliates (sales over $12,000 per month): 50% per sale
  • Cookie duration: 90 days
  • Payment methods: direct deposit or Payoneer (CJ); wire transfer, cheque, PayPal, or Avangate MasterCard (Avangate)
  • Payment threshold: $50 (CJ); $100 (Avangate)

NordVPN

Software Affiliate Programs 9

A 100% commission? Incredible, but true. It’s a case in this affiliate program by NordVPN.

But let’s meet this company first.

If you’ve heard about the virtual private network (VPN), you’ll know how NordVPN works. Actually, this company has grown to become one of the most trusted names in the VPN industry.

It’s a dependable solution that helps individuals and businesses keep their online interactions private and secure.

NordVPN has earned the trust of millions of users worldwide. It boasts a vast network of 5,000+ servers in over 60 countries. So, if you’re targeting a global audience, enjoy this chance.

Now, get back to the commission.

This VPN affiliate program also uses a subscription-based commission structure.

A 100% payout is applied for any new audience who signs up for its one-month subscription. If it’s a 1-year or 2-year plan, you’ll receive 40%.

How about renewal subscriptions? A commission of 30% is offered for all of these packages.

If this program suits your affiliate business, apply to become a partner directly on its site.

It doesn’t require a blog or website. Social media accounts or a YouTube channel can help you pass the application round.

  • Commission rate:
    • 1-month subscription plan: 100% per new sign-up; 30% per renewal
    • 1-year/2-year subscription plan: 40% per new sign-up; 30% per renewal
  • Cookie duration: 30 days
  • Payment methods: PayPal or bank account
  • Payment threshold: $10

Tech Smith

Software Affiliate Programs 10

Now, move to another type of software that might interest your audience.

TechSmith, founded in 1987, is a global leader in screen recording and visual communication software.

Their flagship products, Camtasia and Snagit, are trusted by millions of professionals, educators, trainers, and content creators worldwide.

Fun fact: Camtasia may be behind a lot of the videos you see on YouTube and TVC.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to partner with a brand known for excellence.

Its affiliate program is designed to reward your hard work with a competitive commission of up to 12% on all sales.

TechSmith also provides its affiliates with a wealth of high-quality marketing materials and promotions, such as banners, text links, promotional content, and exclusive coupon codes.

When you choose TechSmith, you’re not alone. Their support team is always ready to assist you with any concerns or inquiries you may have.

A worth-considering program, right?

  • Commission rate: up to 12% on every sale
  • Cookie duration: 45 days
  • Payment methods: direct transfer, BACS, or PayPal
  • Payment threshold: $10

Thinkific 

Software Affiliate Programs 11

Are your audiences teachers, trainers, and content creators who wish to bring their expertise online and reach a global audience?

Or they’re aspiring business owners looking to monetize their knowledge?

Then, take them to Thinkific. This platform is perfect for course creators to design, launch, market, and sell their online courses with ease.

How to start promoting?

First, you need to sign up for its affiliate program, which is managed by Impact.

Once approved, you can get your unique links and earn 30% recurring revenue for each successful referral.

What else can you get? Well, a generous cookie duration of 90 days.

Plus, Thinkific offers a 1-month free trial of Thinkific’s Pro plan that you can provide as a bonus to your audience.

It’s great that Thinkific allows any promotion channel. So, whether you own a blog, a Twitter account, or a community, use it to spread this program to everyone.

  • Commission rate: 30% of the recurring revenue on your referrals
  • Cookie duration: 90 days
  • Payment methods: PayPal or Stripe
  • Payment threshold: $25

Woorise 

Software Affiliate Programs 12

More than 80,000 brands are using Woorise to boost their business. What makes this brand such a loyal choice?

Woorise is proud to help businesses craft engaging and interactive campaigns, whether it’s contests, giveaways, surveys, or landing pages. Having a user-friendly interface and extensive set of features, this is a versatile tool to take your online engagement to the next level.

As an affiliate marketer, you can capitalize on Woorise’s wide appeal and promote the platform to your audience with relevant needs.

In return, you’ll receive a 30% recurring commission on each sale that they make.

How to apply for this program?

Hit the “Sign up now” button on Woorise’s affiliate page (we’ve included a link below). It’s for creating a free Woorise account. After that, you can become its partner and start promoting.

  • Commission rate: 30% recurring commission for any plan
  • Cookie duration: 90 days
  • Payment methods: PayPal
  • Payment threshold: $100

What is a Software Affiliate?

In the ever-expanding digital landscape, there are countless openings for marketers. And software affiliate marketing stands out as a powerful way to tap into this goldmine.

If you become an affiliate in this field, what will you do?

The answer is to promote software products or services of other companies or developers. In return, you’ll receive a commission.

In other words, software affiliates act as intermediaries. Their job is to promote the vendor’s site and bring in customers who will make purchases, sign up for services, etc.

How can you perform this?

Use the digital channels that you have!

Many affiliates have a website or blog where they create tutorials or write reviews of software products. They may also use social media, email marketing, and other channels to help them engage with potential customers.

Are you passionate about software? Do you have a related presence where you can market software products? If so, consider becoming a software affiliate and start making money today!

Software Affiliate Marketing: How Does It Work?

Basically, this is a popular performance-based marketing model. It’s about affiliates promoting software products or services in exchange for a commission on successful referrals they generate.

To be more specific, how does it work?

Let’s review our breakdown below to make sure you fully grasp the procedure.

Affiliate registration

Most software affiliate programs are free to join. Depending on the program, you can sign up directly on the vendor’s website or join via an affiliate platform (like Commission Junction network or Partnerize).

Once approved, get your unique links for promotion. You can increase your chance of success by tapping into a pool of promotional materials and special deals the program offers.

Software promotion

It’s time to let your ability shine!

Start promoting the chosen software through any marketing channel that you have. Note that these channels must be accepted by the program’s regulations.

Producing content on websites or blogs is the most popular. Some others find it more effective to engage with social media, produce YouTube videos, or run paid advertising campaigns.

Crucially, incorporate your unique affiliate links into your promotional content. These links are used to track the traffic and referrals you generate.

Tracking results

Use the tracking tools provided to monitor your promotional efforts. Keep track of critical metrics like clicks, leads, or sales that result from your affiliate links.

Earning commissions

You’ll earn commissions when your referrals take specific actions. More specific?

Usually, it’s when your referred customers purchase or subscribe to a software product.

Sometimes, you might earn commissions for directing potential customers to sign up for free trials.

Receiving Payments

Now, receive the rewards that you deserve. Commissions will be paid out on a regular schedule. You’ll receive them via a specific payment method when your amount exceeds the minimum required.

Why Promote Software Affiliate Programs?

Deciding whether to partner with software affiliate marketing programs requires lots of considerations. If you still need convincing, let us wrap up some basic benefits of promoting these programs to help you make up your mind.

Product’s high demand and diversity

The demand for software products has been steadily growing, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. As a result, related affiliate programs become potentially lucrative.

You can find many types of software products in the market. From essential business and productivity tools to engaging gaming software and creative design applications, there’s something for everyone.

This diversity helps affiliates select a niche that aligns perfectly with their expertise and audience.

Brand reputation

Trust plays a pivotal role in driving conversions. People are more likely to make a purchase if they recognize and trust the brand.

Software brands worldwide are often known for their reputation and credibility. Thus, you can confidently promote their products and look to successful sales.

Lucrative Earnings

Many software affiliate programs offer competitive commission rates. It’s not uncommon to find rates ranging from 20% to 50% or even higher. These generous commissions can result in significant affiliate income.

Moreover, there’s a chance that you’ll paid a recurring commission. This means that as long as a customer continues to pay for a subscription service, you will receive a commission.

Global Reach

Software knows no geographical boundaries. Thus, your affiliate marketing efforts can reach a global audience. This expansive reach opens up vast earning potentials, allowing you to expand your customer base.

Support and Training

As you’ve wandered through our list, you might realize that those programs always provide the best support for affiliate marketers. From marketing resources to exclusive promotions to dedicated affiliate managers, they empower their partners to create effective marketing campaigns and optimize their strategies.

How to Determine the Best Software Affiliate Program?

If you’re still trapped in a bunch of options and can’t see a way out, follow our guide below. We’ll help you find your soulmate.

Stick to your niche

The hard rule to succeed in affiliate marketing? Understand your target audience!

Start questioning: What are their needs, interests, or problems? Knowing your audience inside and out helps you choose the most relevant products to them.

For instance, if you have a blog sharing knowledge among content creators, you can promote helpful products like the designing software of Adobe or Teck Smith’s video-making Camtasia.

Research to find programs

After deciding your niche, there are several questions. Which brands are selling the types of products you need? Do they offer an affiliate program?

You can execute research to directly reach the companies you know or read review articles (like ours) for information.

Seeking recommendations from communities or your professional network is also a good idea.

Evaluate the programs

  • Reputation and product quality

Successful software affiliate marketing lies in the companies’ reputation and the quality of their products.

Look for reviews, testimonials, rewards, etc, to ensure you’re partnering with a trustworthy program.

  • Commission structure

Each program offers a specific payout structure. Recurring commissions or high-commission afffiliate programs with clear terms on how you’ll get paid are preferable.

  • Cookie duration

We advise you to choose programs with longer cookie lifespans, which provides you with more opportunities to earn commissions.

  • Affiliate support

It’s essential to evaluate the level of support offered by the affiliate program. Does it provide you with marketing materials or guidance to effectively promote the products? How dedicated are its affiliate staff and manager?

  • Payment details

Remember to check whether the payment methods are convenient for you.

Plus, make sure the program offers an achievable and reasonable threshold so you can withdraw your money without too much hassle.

What Are Suitable Software Affiliate Programs for Beginners?

Our list above includes the most reliable and lucrative programs in the industry. However, suppose someone asks which of them is suitable for beginners. In that case, we’d love to present a careful selection as follows:

Qustodio: A helpful and quality product will win your customers’ hearts. And Qustodio can do that.

Does it offer a good commission? Well, a payout of up to 20% on all sales, along with a 60-day cookie lifespan, can be considered competitive.

As a newbie, joining a reputable affiliate network is an advantage. Qustodio partners with Awin, creating a dynamic and trustworthy platform for promotion.

It also offers diverse payment methods and a low threshold of $20. This is genuinely beneficial for those who have just begun and might not drive many sales.

Adobe: The most reputable program is always the first choice for newcomers. There’s no need to wonder why Adobe appears in this specific list.

Its products have been used worldwide for decades. So you don’t have to prove its authenticity.

Moreover, the diversity of these products makes it easy to target your audience, especially when you’re so new to the market. Whether they’re into photography, designing, or marketing, you can still find a plan that suits their needs.

Also, take advantage of Adobe’s lucrative commission structure. The minimum payment required is $30, a bit higher than Qustodio’s $20 but still reasonable.

Stellar Data Recovery: Another well-established brand for starters. As we’ve just stated before, “Data loss can happen to anyone.” Thus, Stellar’s product niche (data recovery) is not too picky, creating a better chance for affiliates to reach a wider audience.

Though the program offers commission tiers, a new affiliate signing up still receives a 30% payout. We also love how it extends the cookie lifespan to 90 days.

What else? You can choose between CJ or Avangate to join. Both of them are well-known affiliate networks.

Conclusion

To sum up, the world of software affiliate programs opens doors to plenty of opportunities for affiliate marketers.

The fact is that many affiliates cross software out of their list since they think it might be challenging if they know nothing about technology. But it’s totally wrong.

As you might realize from our list above, these programs vary across different industries. Thus, whether your interests lie in e-commerce, cybersecurity, graphic design, or marketing, there’s a solution suited to your niche.

Dive in and grab the potential of high earnings today!

Ellie Tran

Ellie Tran, a seasoned SEO content writer with three years of experience in the eCommerce world. Being a part of the UpPromote team, Ellie wants to assist Shopify merchants in achieving success through useful content & actionable insights. Ellie's commitment to learning never stops; she's always eager to gain more knowledge about SEO and content marketing to create valuable content for users. When she's not working on content, Ellie enjoys baking and exploring new places.

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