What is the difference between a website pool number and a call extension number?

The short answer is that a website pool number is a set of phone numbers generated automatically and used dynamically based on visitor origin, primarily through Google Ads. In contrast, a call extension number is a fixed number used strictly for Google Ads verification, placed discreetly in the footer of your website and not visible to visitors.

Full Explanation

A website pool number consists of multiple phone numbers that are created automatically. These numbers do not appear directly on your website to visitors. Instead, they work behind the scenes and function only if properly set up within your online marketing system. Their key role is to change dynamically when a visitor arrives via a Google Ads campaign, allowing better tracking of the source of calls.

On the other hand, the call extension number differs in that it is never shown to any visitor at all. It serves a unique purpose for Google Ads: to verify and link your Google Ads campaigns with your actual website. This number is usually placed in the footer section of your website, making it invisible to anyone browsing the site, but accessible to Google for verification purposes.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Website Pool Number Setup: A group of numbers is created and integrated into your system.
Dynamic Display: These numbers change automatically depending on where the visitor comes from — mainly from Google Ads clicks.
Visibility: The pool numbers are not visible on the website itself when viewed normally; they only appear based on visitor tracking.
Call Extension Number Setup: A fixed phone number is assigned solely for Google Ads use.
Placement: This number is embedded in the footer area of your website.
Verification Purpose: It is not intended for regular site visitors to see but allows Google to confirm connection between your website and your ads.

Real Examples

Imagine a visitor clicking your Google Ads link. Instead of seeing the phone number you display on your homepage, they are shown a number from your website pool, enabling you to track those calls as coming from your ads. Meanwhile, your regular website users just see your standard contact details. Separately, Google uses the call extension number in your footer to safely verify your ad setup without exposing that number publicly.

Common Mistakes

Failing to set up the website pool numbers correctly can result in the dynamic numbers not changing, causing loss of valuable call tracking data.
Not placing the call extension number in the footer means Google can’t verify your ads relationship with your website.
Assuming either number is visible or meant for direct customer use can cause confusion during setup and impact tracking accuracy.

FAQs

Are website pool numbers visible to all website visitors?: No, website pool numbers are only shown to visitors coming through Google Ads and are invisible during normal site browsing.
Can I use the call extension number as my main business contact number?: No, the call extension number is used solely for Google Ads verification and is hidden on your site.
Why does the pool number change for visitors?: It changes to track calls based on visitor origin, especially from Google Ads campaigns.

Key Takeaways

Website pool numbers enable dynamic call tracking for visitors originating from Google Ads by displaying numbers automatically generated and switched based on visitor source.
Call extension numbers are fixed numbers embedded invisibly in your website footer, used only by Google Ads for ad and website connection verification.
Both serve different but important functions in ensuring accurate call tracking and proper Google Ads integration but are not visible to general website visitors.