In the world of affiliate marketing, combining the right offer with the right traffic source is key to driving conversions and maximizing ROI. One proven formula for success? VPN offers + classic push traffic.
This powerful duo can help affiliates achieve strong results due to high demand, broad audience reach, and an effective ad format. Let’s break down why this combination works and how you can optimize your campaign.
Why VPN? In a time when digital privacy and security are more important than ever, VPNs have become essential for maintaining anonymity and unrestricted access online.
Quick context for newbies
What’s a VPN?
Do you want to safeguard your online activity, keep your personal data secure on websites, or bypass region-based content restrictions on platforms like Netflix or YouTube? A virtual private network (VPN) could be the solution.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure connection over public networks, masking IP addresses, encrypting data, and enabling access to restricted content.
Naturally, VPN offers are ad campaigns promoting VPN services. Affiliates run these ads to earn commissions for each VPN download or subscription.
Since VPNs provide essential online security features, they are widely recognized as a utility app rather than an entertainment or lifestyle app.
Learn more about advertising utility apps here.
How did we get here?
The history o VPNs dates back to the early 2010s when online privacy concerns, censorship, and geo-restrictions became more prominent. As VPN services grew in popularity, companies leveraged affiliate marketing to expand their reach, offering high commissions in return.
Initially, VPN affiliate marketing was driven by tech-savvy users and cybersecurity blogs but later, as streaming restrictions (Netflix, Hulu, etc.) and data privacy laws (GDPR, CCPA) fueled demand, affiliate marketers saw massive potential in promoting VPNs through various channels, including SEO, and paid ads.
Today, the VPN affiliate market is highly competitive, with major providers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark offering lucrative commissions. The demand remains strong due to increasing global internet surveillance, cyber threats, and content restrictions, making VPN offers a stable and profitable niche for affiliates.
Why VPN Offers Are Highly Profitable
VPN services are in constant demand due to increasing concerns over privacy, cybersecurity, and access to geo-restricted content. Here’s why VPN offers are ideal for affiliate marketers:
Recurring Revenue Potential
Many VPN providers offer subscription-based services, meaning affiliates can earn commissions on renewals.
Wide Target Audience
VPNs appeal to users worldwide, from those seeking better security to those bypassing content restrictions.
High Payouts
Many VPN affiliate programs offer competitive CPA or revenue-sharing models, making them lucrative for performance marketers.
Growing Market
With the rise of remote work, streaming services, and online privacy concerns, VPN adoption continues to grow.
“In 2022, the global VPN market amounted to 45 billion U.S. dollars and was forecast to reach 350 billion U.S. dollars by 2032. Virtual private networks are designed to extend a network securely from a private location, such as a business or home, across a public network, as if the network were directly linked.
VPNs are popular among consumers for obfuscating their real location, whether to access geo-blocked services or bypass censorship or other restrictions. Among enterprises, VPNs are often set up to allow employees to access corporate intranets while travelling or working from home.” – source
Common Uses of a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) enhances security, privacy, and accessibility online. Here are its key uses:
Online Privacy & Anonymity
Hides your IP address and encrypts data to prevent tracking by ISPs, advertisers, or governments.
Secure Public Wi-Fi Connections
Protects data from hackers when using unsecured networks in cafes, airports, or hotels.
Access Geo-Restricted Content
Unblocks region-locked websites and streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, or BBC iPlayer.
Data Encryption for Security
Keeps sensitive information safe, including banking details and login credentials.
Work & Remote Access
Allows employees to securely connect to company networks from anywhere.
Bypassing Censorship & Restrictions
Helps users in restricted regions access blocked websites and communicate freely.
Avoiding Bandwidth Throttling
Prevents ISPs from slowing down internet speeds based on activity.
Safer Torrenting & P2P Sharing
Masks IP addresses to ensure private and secure file sharing.
VPNs are a powerful tool for maintaining security, privacy, and unrestricted internet access.
VPN advertising hotspots
The best GEOs for advertising VPN offers are typically those with high internet censorship, strict data privacy laws, or heavy streaming restrictions.
1. High-Censorship Countries: China, Russia, Iran, UAE, Turkey
- These countries have strict internet regulations and blocked websites, making VPNs essential for unrestricted access.
- Demand is high, but advertising restrictions exist, so alternative ad channels (push traffic, influencer marketing) may be needed.
2. Privacy-Conscious Markets: Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Canada
- Users in these regions prioritize data security and privacy due to strict privacy laws like GDPR.
- VPNs are popular for anonymous browsing and encrypted connections.
3. Streaming-Heavy Regions: USA, UK, Australia, Canada
- Many users buy VPNs to access geo-restricted streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
- High purchasing power and familiarity with subscription services lead to better conversions.
4. Emerging Markets with Growing Internet Usage: India, Brazil, Indonesia, Nigeria
- Rapid internet adoption and growing concerns over digital privacy make VPNs appealing.
- Lower competition in affiliate marketing compared to Western markets, offering scaling opportunities.
Why Classic Push Traffic Works So Well
Classic push traffic remains one of the most effective and affordable traffic sources for affiliate offers.
Here’s why push ads are a great fit for VPN offers:
High Engagement
Push notifications are delivered directly to a user’s device, ensuring high visibility and interaction.
Broad Reach
Push traffic allows affiliates to target global audiences efficiently.
Cost-Effective
Push ads generally have low CPC rates, making them ideal for testing and scaling campaigns.
User Intent
Users receiving push notifications are already online, increasing the chances of immediate engagement.
How to Optimize Your VPN + Push Traffic Campaigns
To maximize success, follow these best practices when running VPN offers on push traffic:
1. Choose the Right VPN Offer
Select a trusted and well-known VPN brand with high conversion rates. Look for offers with flexible payment options, mobile-friendly sign-ups, and attractive bonuses for users.
| VPN Affiliate Program | Commission Structure | Perks |
| NordVPN Affiliate
NordVPN is a leading VPN provider known for its strong security features and extensive server network. |
Up to 100% on first sale, then 30%-40% recurring.
Affiliates earn commissions ranging from 40% to 100% on new sign-ups, with a 30% commission on renewals. |
Strong brand, high conversion rates, various promotional tools.
The program offers a 30-day cookie duration and supports various payment methods, including PayPal and wire transfer. |
| ExpressVPN Affiliate
ExpressVPN is renowned for its high-quality service and offers attractive commissions to affiliates. |
Up to $36 per sale.
Affiliates can earn up to 100% commission on monthly subscriptions and 45% on annual plans. |
High payouts, global audience, dedicated support.
The program provides dedicated support and marketing materials to help maximize conversions. |
| Surfshark Affiliate
Surfshark is recognized for its user-friendly interface and competitive pricing. |
Up to 40% recurring commission.
Affiliates receive a 40% commission on new sales, with the potential for higher earnings based on performance. |
Budget-friendly VPN, high conversion rates.
The program offers a 30-day cookie duration and provides affiliates with a range of marketing materials. |
| CyberGhost Affiliate
CyberGhost offers up to 100% commissions on monthly sales and 45% on annual subscriptions. |
Up to 40% commission.
Affiliates have access to customized graphics, landing pages, and real-time performance statistics. |
Strong brand presence, multiple payout methods.
The program provides a 45-day cookie duration and offers various payment methods. |
| IPVanish Affiliate Program
IPVanish offers a 50% commission on monthly, quarterly, or annual plans. |
Affiliates benefit from dedicated account managers and comprehensive marketing support. | The program provides a 45-day cookie duration and supports payment methods like PayPal and ACH for US-based affiliates. |
| Private Internet Access (PIA) Affiliate Program
PIA, another service under Kape Technologies, offers up to 33% commissions on all new and recurring sales over the customer’s lifetime. |
Affiliates receive marketing materials and tracking tools to aid promotion. | The program provides a 30-day cookie duration and supports payment methods like PayPal and wire transfer. |
When selecting a VPN affiliate program, consider factors such as commission rates, cookie duration, payment methods, and the quality of marketing support. Aligning with reputable VPN services ensures that you promote valuable products to your audience, enhancing trust and conversion rates.
2. Target the Right Audience
Consider these audience segments for your push ad campaigns:
- Users in high-censorship regions (China, Russia, Middle East, etc.)
- Frequent travelers looking for secure connections
- Streaming enthusiasts bypassing geo-restrictions
- Remote workers concerned about data security
3. Localized copy & creatives
Your push ads need to capture attention instantly. Use:
- Short, curiosity-driven headlines (e.g., “Unblock Everything Instantly! 🔥”)
- Urgency and FOMO elements (e.g., “Limited Time Offer – 70% OFF Today!”)
- Eye-catching visuals (e.g., padlocks, security shields, or globe icons)
- Use localized visuals and cultural references to connect with specific GEOs.
- Highlight privacy, security, and streaming benefits in ad copy.
- Offer discounts, free trials, or limited-time deals to increase conversions.
4. Optimize Landing Pages
Ensure your landing pages are:
- Fast-loading and mobile-optimized
- Localized for different geo-targeted users
- Clear on pricing and benefits to minimize bounce rates
- Ensure fast-loading, mobile-friendly landing pages.
- Use clear CTAs that lead to direct app downloads or sign-ups.
5. Test, Track, and Scale
- Test different creatives, headlines, and call-to-actions (CTAs) to determine what converts best. Once you identify winning combinations, scale up your campaigns while optimizing for ROI.
- Testing multiple GEOs with localized creatives can help identify the best-performing regions for your VPN campaigns.
- Monitor campaign performance using ad trackers and analytics.
- Optimize by adjusting bids, targeting, and creatives based on data.
- Scale winning campaigns by increasing budgets and expanding to new GEOs.
Conclusions
The VPN offers + classic push traffic combo is a winning strategy for affiliates looking to drive consistent conversions. By leveraging high-demand offers, engaging push creatives, and strategic targeting, you can unlock strong ROI while helping users access a valuable service.
Ready to test it out?