When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more ›

AffiliateCMS.com

Cloudways Reviews

cloudways.com Hosting provider
Editor's rating
4.2/5
User rating
No reviews yet
0
Type
Managed WordPress Hosting
Price from
Varies
Free domain
No
Uptime
Varies
Money-back
Varies
Advertisement

Overview

Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform built on top of major infrastructure providers like DigitalOcean, Linode, AWS, and Google Cloud, offering a simplified interface for WordPress and other web applications. The company operates both as a hosting provider and an affiliate network, enabling bloggers and site owners to earn commissions by referring customers to their service. This dual model makes Cloudways relevant for publishers seeking both a reliable hosting solution and a monetization opportunity.

Performance and reliability

Cloudways delivers solid performance through its use of established cloud infrastructure with SSD storage and optimized server configurations. The platform includes built-in caching, CDN integration, and staging environments designed to support WordPress sites of varying complexity. Most users report consistent load times and acceptable performance for small to medium traffic volumes, though performance ultimately depends on the underlying cloud provider selected and the plan tier chosen.

Pricing and plans

Cloudways pricing is tiered based on server size and cloud provider selection, starting from entry-level options designed for small sites up to enterprise-grade configurations. Plans are billed monthly or include discounts for annual commitments, and the platform allows easy scaling as site traffic grows. The affiliate program offers both hybrid pricing models and recurring commission structures, giving publishers flexibility in how they promote the service.

Features

The platform includes a custom control panel, one-click WordPress installation, automatic daily backups, integrated staging environments, and built-in server monitoring and security tools. Cloudways also provides API access for developers, SSH access for advanced users, and support for multiple applications beyond WordPress. The managed nature of the service means routine updates, patches, and server maintenance are handled by the provider, reducing administrative burden.

Support

Cloudways offers 24/7 support through live chat, tickets, and email channels, though response times and quality can vary. The knowledge base is comprehensive with documentation, tutorials, and community resources available to self-serve customers. Support is included across all paid plans, and the team is generally responsive to technical issues affecting uptime or functionality.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Multiple cloud provider options enable traffic-based scalability without changing hosts
  • 24/7 support and comprehensive documentation reduce downtime risk for content creators
  • Recurring affiliate commission model rewards long-term customer referrals
  • Managed WordPress focus eliminates routine maintenance and updates for site owners

Cons

  • Pricing higher than basic shared hosting, making it harder to recommend to budget-conscious users
  • Affiliate program approval and commission terms vary by region and referral volume
  • Performance depends on chosen cloud provider and server size, creating variable quality perception

Who it is best for

Cloudways is ideal for WordPress bloggers, small business owners, and content creators who want managed hosting without the complexity of traditional cPanel interfaces combined with affiliate monetization opportunities. Publishers with growing traffic who need reliability without heavy technical involvement find the platform particularly valuable. The affiliate program appeals to tech bloggers and WordPress-focused publishers looking for a legitimate, recurring-revenue program.

Verdict

Cloudways presents a solid option for publishers seeking both quality managed hosting and an affiliate revenue stream. The platform balances ease of use with adequate features and performance, though pricing sits slightly above budget shared hosting and support consistency could be stronger. For WordPress-focused bloggers and affiliates willing to recommend a genuine product they use themselves, Cloudways offers credibility and reasonable earning potential.

Advertisement
Advertisement

User reviews

Be the first to review Cloudways. Share your experience to help other affiliates.

Frequently asked questions

How do I sign up for the Cloudways affiliate program?
You apply directly through their affiliate portal on cloudways.com, providing basic information about your platform, traffic, and audience. Approval typically follows within a few business days, though specific requirements and approval criteria vary by region. Once approved, you receive unique referral links and access to marketing materials to promote Cloudways hosting.
What commission structure does Cloudways offer affiliates?
Cloudways offers both hybrid and recurring commission models, allowing you to choose between one-time referral fees and ongoing commissions from retained customers. The specific commission rates and terms depend on your agreement level and referral performance. Publishers should review the detailed commission schedule provided upon approval to understand their earning structure.
When and how do I receive affiliate payouts?
Payouts are typically processed monthly once you meet the minimum payout threshold, through methods such as PayPal, bank transfer, or other options depending on your location. The exact payment schedule and available methods are outlined in your affiliate agreement. You can track pending and completed commissions through your affiliate dashboard.
Is there a minimum payout threshold for Cloudways affiliate earnings?
Yes, Cloudways enforces a minimum payout threshold before disbursing earnings, though the specific amount varies by region and payment method. Publishers should confirm this threshold in their affiliate agreement before launching campaigns. Earnings below this threshold typically roll over to the next payout period.
What types of customers and programs can I promote through Cloudways affiliate?
As a hosting provider, Cloudways focuses on direct customer acquisition, so your referrals should be individuals or businesses seeking managed cloud hosting solutions. The platform is particularly suited for WordPress sites but also supports other applications, meaning your audience targeting should emphasize website creators and small business owners. There is essentially one program: Cloudways hosting itself, with no subcategories or specialized product tracks.
Is Cloudways a legitimate and safe affiliate program?
Yes, Cloudways is a legitimate, well-established hosting provider owned by Cyber Cloud Ltd., with years of operating history and thousands of active customers worldwide. The company is transparent about its affiliate program terms, provides accurate tracking and reporting, and pays commissions reliably. Publishers should verify current terms directly on their website, but the program has a genuine reputation in the hosting and affiliate marketing space.
Who should and shouldn't promote Cloudways as an affiliate?
Cloudways is ideal for WordPress bloggers, tech writers, web design coaches, and other publishers whose audiences actively build and maintain websites. Publishers with audiences focused on cheap or free hosting solutions, or those in non-English markets with limited Cloudways availability, may find fewer conversion opportunities. The program works best when promoted authentically to audiences already interested in web hosting solutions, rather than as a general recommendation.