Self-service ad networks have gained popularity among publishers seeking to monetize their websites and apps.
These networks offer an automated platform for managing ad campaigns and inventory, unlike managed ad networks that require direct relationships and more hand-holding. Self-service ad networks are ideal for monetizing website traffic without needing an ad ops team.
In this article, we discuss self-service ad networks and list the top platforms for publishers in 2024 based on revenue earnings, features, and ease of use. Suitable for websites of all sizes and traffic levels, these networks cater to banner, native, or video ads.
TL;DR
The best self-service ad networks for publishers in 2024 are Google AdSense, Media.net, PropellerAds, Adsterra, Ezoic, MonetizeMore, and AdThrive. Key factors to evaluate include ad formats, targeting capabilities, analytics, payment terms, traffic requirements, optimization tools, and overall revenue potential. AdSense and Ezoic are great for beginners, while Media.net, PropellerAds, and AdThrive offer higher CPMs for established publishers.
What is a Self-Service Ad Network?
A self-service ad network provides an automated platform for publishers to manage their ad inventory and campaigns independently. The key benefit is efficiency and scalability, as publishers don't need dedicated ad ops staff and can start monetizing quickly. Self-service networks also offer robust targeting options and insightful analytics. However, managed networks provide more hands-on support and revenue optimization but require larger traffic commitments.
Top 7 Self-Service Ad Networks for Publishers
1. Google AdSense
Overview: The largest display ad network, ideal for beginners.
Features: Wide range of ad formats, geo and contextual targeting, real-time reporting, quick approval process, and integration with Google Analytics.
Minimum Traffic: None officially, but around 25k sessions/month recommended.
Revenue: Typically $2-$5 RPM for most publishers. Higher with video inventory.
Pros: Easy implementation, global reach, brand safety.
Cons: Lower RPMs than other networks. Frequent policy updates.
2. Media.net
Overview: A major contextual ad network focused on native ads, owned by Chinese company Miteno.
Features: Strong native ad formats, geo targeting, fast approval, and payments.
Minimum Traffic: 50k sessions/month.
Revenue: $10-$15+ RPM based on region and traffic quality.
Pros: Higher revenues for US, UK, Canada traffic. Responsive account management.
Cons: Limited reporting and optimization capabilities as self-serve platform is new.
3. PropellerAds
Overview: Offers native, pop, banner, and video ads specifically for desktop traffic.
Features: Daily payments, extensive analytics, dedicated account manager.
Minimum Traffic: 300k sessions/month.
Revenue: Up to $50 RPM based on vertical and region.
Pros: Premium payouts, great support, various ad formats.
Cons: High minimum traffic requirements. Does not monetize mobile traffic.
4. Adsterra
Overview: Full-service ad network focused on European traffic.
Features: Anti-adblock scripts, A/B testing tools, daily payments.
Minimum Traffic: No minimum.
Revenue: $3-$8 RPM on average. Higher for Tier 1 countries.
Pros: Low traffic requirements, good fill rates.
Cons: Limited targeting capabilities, high ad frequency at times.
5. Ezoic
Overview: Ad tech platform combining ad serving, testing tools, and AI optimization.
Features: Automatic testing and optimization, integrated CDN, geo targeting.
Minimum Traffic: 10k visits/month.
Revenue: $6-$10+ RPM when fully optimized.
Pros: Advanced analytics and earnings lift for sites with enough scale.
Cons: Slow approval process. Requires technical integration.
6. MonetizeMore
Overview: Full-service monetization platform focused on header bidding and ad optimization.
Features: Header bidding wrapper, A/B testing, ad mediation, advanced analytics.
Minimum Traffic: 50k visits/month.
Revenue: Publishers earn 55-65% more on average.
Pros: Significant revenue lift for established publishers. Hands-on account management.
Cons: Not fully self-serve. Higher optimization fees.
7. AdThrive
Overview: Google Publishing Partner focused on premium monetization.
Features: Revenue analytics, split testing, dedicated optimization team.
Minimum Traffic: 2 million pageviews/month.
Revenue: $10+ RPM on average. Higher with video inventory.
Pros: High CPMs, great support and optimization.
Cons: Very high minimum traffic requirements.
Key Factors in Selecting a Self-Service Ad Network
Consider ad formats, targeting, reporting & analytics, payments & thresholds, account management, traffic requirements, optimization tools, and overall earnings potential when choosing a self-service ad network.
Conclusion
In 2024, self-service ad networks offer an attractive opportunity for publishers to monetize websites of any size without major time commitments. AdSense and Ezoic are great for beginners, while PropellerAds, Media.net, and AdThrive offer higher earnings for sites with more traffic. Focus on optimizing placements, ad units, and floor prices to maximize revenue over time. With the right setup, self-service ad networks provide an easy way for publishers to earn substantial income from their website traffic.
