The first widely distributed Webcam software programs, such as Webcam32, were outfitted with chat room capabilities at the behest of sex sellers. As competition has grown fiercer, adult sites have increased the bounties they pay to free sites that can deliver visitors. But nonporn affiliate programs have low commissions when compared with those offered by sex destinations. And they make a lot of money. They also pay to have ads pop up on some search sites when certain words are entered.
Consumers get access to thousands of images and videos.
To prevent their wares from unauthorized reuse on Web sites around the world, adult sites pioneered the used of specialized policing firms such as Web Posse. The music industry, spurred by Napster, is only now getting into this realm of Internet commerce. The word in the adult industry is, basically, the others just don't get it. While the rest of Internet content providers fret over suspect business models, Ms. Ashe says, the adult Web industry will press on, leading the way for other entrepreneurs. But soda sells and books sell, too.