In today’s digital world, ad networks continue to play a significant role in the online advertising ecosystem. However, with so many options available, picking the best ad network in 2025 can still be a challenge. To ensure you don’t end up regretting your choice of ad network, here are four major pitfalls to avoid.
These Are the Common Mistakes Publishers Make When Choosing an Ad Network:
Signing Annual Contracts
Relying on Ad Networks That Promise Certain Rates
Letting Ad Networks Take Over Your Hosting
Neglecting the Importance of Exclusivity
Let’s break down why avoiding these mistakes is crucial for your success.
Annual Contracts: Why They’re a Red Flag
Annual contracts for premium advertisers often signal, “We don’t trust our own product.” If an ad network is truly confident in its services, why force publishers into a year-long commitment?
Think about it: signing a year-long contract with an ad network is like agreeing to lease a house without ever seeing it. They might promise premium ads, but what if the results fall flat? What if their advertisers or strategies aren’t effective for your audience? Now you’re stuck, unable to pivot for an entire year.
This type of agreement eliminates any bargaining power you have. You can’t negotiate better terms or switch providers if performance doesn’t meet expectations. Moreover, premium advertisers are not always as “premium” as they claim to be. Some ad networks push these contracts to create an illusion of exclusivity when, in reality, their services are inconsistent at best.
You deserve the freedom to make decisions that serve your website and audience best—not what’s convenient for the ad network.
Beware of "Guaranteed Rates"
At Monumetric, we believe in partnerships, not transactions. Over the years, we’ve seen publishers drawn in by ad networks offering guaranteed rates for premium advertisers. But what happens when those guarantees fall through?
The consequences can be severe. Publishers rely on consistent revenue to keep their websites running smoothly. When promised rates aren’t met, it’s not just disappointing—it can jeopardize your business.
Ad networks that fail to deliver on guarantees often damage their reputation and lose publishers’ trust. In contrast, we’ve built lasting relationships with publishers by focusing on sustainable growth, constant feedback, and optimizing revenue strategies tailored to their unique needs.
Here’s what one of our publishers, Alex Woolfson, had to say:
Hosting or Hostage?
Some ad networks offer to take control of your hosting or WordPress framework—but this is rarely a good idea. It often feels like an intentional trap, designed to make it nearly impossible for you to switch providers without major disruptions.
Here’s why this practice is a “big no”:
It Limits Your Freedom: If an ad network controls your hosting, you’re effectively locked in. Switching providers might require a complete website rebuild—a nightmare scenario for any publisher.
It Reduces Your Control: As a publisher, you should have the final say over your website’s hosting and framework. Ceding that control to an ad network can hinder your ability to make improvements or adapt to changing needs.
It Can Slow Down Your Site: Hosting control by an ad network may result in slower website performance, especially if their servers are poorly optimized or located far from your primary audience.
It’s Shady Business: Reputable ad networks don’t resort to these tactics. This approach is more about locking you in than helping you succeed.
The Value of Exclusivity
Exclusivity matters in the ad network you choose. If they’re working with your direct competitors, it could impact your ability to differentiate and compete effectively.
For Monumetric, exclusivity is a core principle. We tailor strategies to align with publishers’ unique brands and ensure their success without compromising their market position. Plus, we make the transition process seamless by ensuring ads.txt changes are straightforward—no complications, no revenue disruptions.
Real Publishers, Real Results
At Monumetric, our publishers’ success stories speak for themselves:
Site 1: 250% RPM Increase
A publisher focused on user experience achieved a leap from $6.40 RPM to $22.48 RPM. With optimized ad placements and premium connections, we drove significant growth without increasing ad density.Site 2: 25% RPM Increase
A publisher prioritizing brand integrity worked within tight parameters but still saw a 25% RPM lift thanks to our Thalese pricing engine and premium advertiser connections.Site 3: 58% RPM Increase
An experienced publisher collaborated with us to explore tailored ad layouts. The result? A 58% RPM increase while staying true to their vision.
These case studies highlight the importance of collaboration, customization, and innovation in achieving revenue growth.
You Deserve Better
Don’t settle for ad networks that:
Push long-term contracts
Fail to deliver on promises
Limit your control
Neglect exclusivity
You deserve an ad network that values your time, respects your audience, and listens to your needs. Ready to learn more? Visit Monumetric.com/join to see how we can help you succeed in 2025 and beyond.
Read more from Monumetric Publishers and what they have to say about us:
