Overview
Media source types help classify where your app’s user acquisition comes from (integrated networks, link-based, or owned channels). This article explains how Apptrove treats each type and why the distinctions matter for attribution and analytics.
What is a Media Source?
A media source is any channel, partner, or mechanism through which users are exposed to your app (e.g. ads, email campaigns, referral links). Apptrove uses different attribution logic depending on the media source type to correctly assign credit to installs and in-app events.
Types of Media Sources in Apptrove
Media Source Type | Attribution Method | Key Characteristics / Trade-offs |
Integrated Networks (SRN) | API / server-to-server integration | High reliability, fewer parameter losses |
Attribution-Link Networks (Non-SRN) | Click/impression links with URL parameters | Requires correct parameter passing; can suffer from dropouts |
Owned Media | Deep links / campaign links you control | Full control over linking; risk of mis-tagging if not handled properly |
How Apptrove Uses Media Source Types
Attribution Logic per Type
SRN: Apptrove receives attribution data via API, reducing reliance on parameter parsing.
Non-SRN: Apptrove reads URL parameters from clicks/impressions to assign credit.
Owned: Attribution depends on your control of deep links or campaign URLs you configured.
Priority & Matching
When multiple potential sources are detected, Apptrove applies rules (e.g. “last valid click”, network priority) to decide which media source gets credit for an install or event.
Reporting & Segmentation
Attribution and event data are segmented by media source type (SRN, non-SRN, owned). This allows you to compare how different source types perform.
Quality & Loss Considerations
Integrated networks often deliver more complete data. Link-based sources may experience parameter loss or broken redirects. Owned media gives you more control but requires precise tagging.
Best Practices & Tips
Use integrated networks whenever possible—these reduce data loss and improve attribution accuracy.
For non-SRN networks, double-check that link parameters are correct and preserved across redirects.
In owned media campaigns, always tag deep links or URLs with proper campaign identifiers.
Monitor your attribution reports by media source type and watch for anomalies (e.g. sudden shifts in non-SRN installs that may indicate link breakage).
Periodically audit your network integrations to ensure data is flowing as expected.
Contact Support
If you notice discrepancies, want help integrating a new network, or need clarification on Apptrove’s attribution logic, reach out to support@apptrove.com or use your account’s in-platform support channel.