Overview #
Skimlinks is used as a global fallback network, meaning that any merchant not matched or approved through AWIN or Amazon will automatically be monetised through Skimlinks.
AffiliateSync supports both standard Skimlinks links and custom .go tracking domains for cleaner, more professional-looking outbound URLs.
Step 1 — Create a Skimlinks Account #
Register at:
https://skimlinks.com
Once approved, you will receive:
- Site ID
- Publisher domain (optional)
Step 2 — Find Your Skimlinks Site ID #
In the Skimlinks dashboard look for your Site ID, which looks like:
125364X1610977
Step 3 — Add Your Details in AffiliateSync #
- Go to Affiliate Networks → Skimlinks
- Enter your Site ID
- Optional: enter a custom .go tracking domain
- Save
Using a Custom .go Domain (Optional but Recommended) #
A .go domain improves:
- Tracking clarity
- Click-through rates
- Branding control
- Link cleanliness
Example custom domains:
go.anydealsuk.com
go.yoursite.com
AffiliateSync can rewrite Skimlinks URLs using your custom domain instead of the Skimlinks standard redirector.
If you are unsure please search on google for setting up a subdomain on your host as each is different.
This is the instructions directly from Skimlinks
You must setup your CNAME record before you enable this setting.
Firstly, you need to add a CNAME record with your domain name server provider, this will often be your domain registrar rather than your hosting company, but they may both be the same company. Go to DNS settings or Name Server Records section of your admin panel, and add a new CNAME record with the following values:
Name / record:
We suggest ‘go’ or ‘go.example.com’ (depending on your provider’s setup)
Value / data of:
redirect.skimlinks.com. (note the final ‘.’ this is required by most systems)
TTL of:
300 Once you have set up the CNAME, you can verify it is correct by checking that you see the same page when you go to http://go.example.com as when you go to http://redirect.skimlinks.com. It should be an explanatory page showing a compass. Once you have verified the CNAME is mapping correctly, turn the feature ‘ON’, add your custom subdomain in the field above, and click ‘Validate’.
How Custom .go Domain Rewriting Works #
Original URL:
https://www.skimlinks.com/
Rewritten with .go domain:
http://go.anydeals.uk/?id=125364X1610977&xs=1&url=http://skimlinks.com
This improves:
- Brand presence
- Trustworthiness
How Skimlinks Is Used Inside AffiliateSync #
Skimlinks is triggered when:
1. Merchant has no direct integration #
If the domain isn’t listed in AWIN or Amazon.
2. User is not approved for the merchant #
AWIN API returns “not joined” → fallback to Skimlinks.
3. Amazon rules do not apply #
Amazon links are not present.
4. Network has no available parameters #
Some merchants only work via Skimlinks.
Why Skimlinks Is Essential #
- Ensures almost every deal is monetised
- No requirement for multi-network approvals
- Supports thousands of merchants
- Works automatically with no merchant-by-merchant setup
AffiliateSync uses Skimlinks as the safety net ensuring you never lose commission due to “non-joined” merchants.
