Given that cookies are used to track customers, what happens if someone just clears their computer out on a given day. Does all of your potential income/referrals just go out the proverbial window?

I must say all of this technology is mind numbing and overwhelming. I'd hate to think after numerous hours/days/months spent writing and optimizing a site that all of my hard work can just be wiped away with a keystroke and a click.

Can some of the more experienced comment on this topic?

Thanks,
Bellabinx

PS there will be a SIGNATURE here soon enough!!

Yep...when someone clears their cookies out, your affiliate link is pretty much history. The good thing is that most people aren't computer savvy enough to delete things like temporary internet files and cookies on a regular basis.