Cookieless or server-side tracking
On this pageWhat it is
What it is
Most affiliate tracking works by placing a cookie in the visitor's browser when they click an affiliate link, then reading it when they buy. Cookieless or server-side tracking records the referral in another way, for example by passing a referral code through the checkout, sending the sale from your server to the tracking tool or matching a visitor by technical details. FirstPromoter, Post Affiliate Pro, Tapfiliate and Tolt are listed with this feature.
Why it matters
Cookies are unreliable. Some browsers limit how long they last, some visitors block them and a customer who clicks on a phone and buys on a laptop leaves no trail. Every lost referral is an affiliate who was not paid for a sale they earned, which leads to disputes. You need a backup method when affiliates drive a good share of your revenue or when your buyers take a long time to decide. If sales mostly happen in a single visit, cookies may be enough.
What to check
- Ask which non-cookie methods are available and what each one needs from your website or checkout.
- Test a referral that crosses devices or a browser with tracking protection turned on.
- Check what customer data is passed along and whether it fits your privacy policy.
- Find out whether set-up needs a developer.
Tools with Cookieless or server-side tracking
Manage affiliate, referral and influencer programmes that track commissions against your subscription revenue.
Track affiliate, referral and partner program clicks, conversions and commissions from one dashboard.
Tracks clicks and sales for affiliate, referral and influencer programmes, with multi-tier commissions.
Launch and manage SaaS affiliate programmes with branded portals, tracking and payouts on one dashboard.