Back to Glossary

Ad-Waterfall

Description

The ad waterfall is a sequential ad serving method where networks are prioritized by expected revenue.

Definition

In a waterfall setup, the highest-priority network is called first. If it can’t fill the request, the next one is tried, and so on—until an ad is served or the chain ends.

Why Is Ad-Waterfall Important for App Marketers?

It allows control over fill and eCPM but can lead to inefficiencies like latency and missed revenue from lower-tier bids.

Where You Can Use Ad-Waterfall

Ad mediation platforms, legacy app monetization setups, fill rate optimization.

What Are the Best Practices

  • Mix waterfall with header bidding, reorder networks based on recent eCPM, track latency and fill gaps.
Waterfalls work—but only when they flow dynamically, not rigidly.