Does anyone have any recommendations for good book(s) or online resources that explain how different types of websites make money? Bonus points for a good resource that explains how Ad Networks play a role in the process. I'm thinking of building a website that would be free to use and would generate revenue through add banners, but I don't know how that all works or if that's actually the best way to monetize my site.
Thanks in advance for all your help!
I know just some German resources. But a good way is to just use google, there are many websites about marketing and how to promote software, sell ebooks or use google ads effective. That could be a good way to make money online, but it will ever be much work. I think nobody can tell you how to make much money online without doing anything for it, and only a few people even knows how you can earn much with 100% guarantee.
Try to find some newsletters, often they are for free. If you look around a bit, you will find a big network of people who all have the dream of making "the big deal" online ;)
In The secret to making money online, David Heinemeier Hansson, creator of the Ruby on Rails framework and Partner of 37signals gives insight into creating a profitable startup company.
This is an awesome talk that I've shared with many people already: a lot of common sense, a lot of humor and fun, a very nice presentation style, etc. A must see IMO.
Then, once you've mastered how to make money once, you can try the next step: doing it twice (or three or four times) as explained in Making money twice.
PS: Making money from ads sounds so pre internet bubble... But I guess you know it didn't work for a large majority of startups.