What happens when I put the extension number in the footer of my website?

Short Answer: Putting the extension number in your website’s footer causes all phone numbers on your site to change dynamically. This happens because the extension number links to a feature called the website pool, which detects visitors coming through Google Ads and adjusts the phone number they see accordingly. This is different from a call extension number used solely within Google Ads for tracking purposes and remains invisible to visitors. The extension number in the footer allows Google to verify that it is connected to your website.

Full Explanation

When you add the extension number to the footer of your website, it triggers a system that alters the phone numbers displayed across your site. This system is known as the website pool. Its main function is to recognize when a visitor arrives at your website through Google Ads. Once detected, the website pool changes the visible phone number specifically for that visitor to track calls effectively. This dynamic number insertion helps in attributing calls to the correct Google Ads campaigns.

It’s important to note that this use of the extension number on your website is distinct from a call extension number. Call extension numbers are configured within Google Ads and are never shown directly to your website visitors. They serve only internal purposes for Google Ads call tracking and verification.

Placing the extension number in the footer is strategic because it helps Google verify that your phone number on the website is legitimately linked to your ad campaigns. This verification supports the accurate functioning of call tracking and attribution.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

You add the extension number to the footer section of your website.
The website pool feature activates and scans visitors landing on your website.
If a visitor comes from a Google Ads link, the website pool detects this source.
The feature automatically swaps the phone number shown on the site with the extension number for that visitor.
This ensures calls from these visitors are tracked as coming through your Google Ads campaigns.
Meanwhile, the regular call extension number in Google Ads remains hidden from any visitor, solely used for internal Google Ads operations.
Google verifies this connection through the presence of the extension number in the footer, confirming ownership and tracking accuracy.

Real Examples

Imagine a website that displays a main phone number to all visitors. When a visitor arrives through a Google Ads click, the website pool feature changes that displayed phone number to one that includes the extension number added in the footer. This new number is unique to the ad campaign or visitor source, allowing precise tracking. Visitors coming from other sources will continue to see the regular phone number.

Common Mistakes

Confusing the extension number placed on the website with call extension numbers in Google Ads. The former is visible and changes phone numbers on your site, while the latter is invisible and used only within Google Ads.
Not placing the extension number in the footer, which could prevent Google from verifying the link between your phone number and ads properly.
Failing to understand that adding the extension number dynamically changes phone numbers for all visitors, not just showing a static number.

FAQs

Q: Does the extension number show up for all visitors?
No, it only changes the phone number shown to visitors coming through Google Ads clicks.

Q: Is the call extension number the same as the extension number in the footer?
No, call extension numbers are only used inside Google Ads and are never visible on your website. The extension number in the footer affects the phone numbers displayed on the site.

Q: Why is the extension number placed in the footer?
Placing it in the footer helps Google verify that the extension number is legitimately connected to your website and ad account.

Key Takeaways

Extension numbers in the footer enable dynamic phone number changes on your website through the website pool feature.
This functionality targets visitors arriving via Google Ads, helping track calls accurately.
Call extension numbers in Google Ads differ and are only used internally, not displayed on the site.
Placing the extension number in the footer allows Google to confirm and verify your call tracking setup.