What is the Search Network in Google Ads?

Short Answer: The Search Network in Google Ads allows your ads to appear near Google search results and on other Google sites when users search for terms that match your keywords. This means your ad is shown on Google search engine results but not on external sites like search.com, even if they use Google’s search technology.

Full Explanation

The Search Network is a feature within Google Ads that places your advertisements close to where people are searching for relevant information. When someone looks for keywords connected to what you’re advertising, your ad can appear alongside the Google search results. This placement isn’t limited just to Google’s main search page but extends to other Google properties as well.

However, it’s important to note that your ads will not be shown on third-party search engines such as search.com, even if those platforms utilize Google’s search technology. The advertisements are specifically displayed on Google-owned sites, ensuring a more focused and relevant audience engagement.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

User Searches on Google: A person types search terms related to keywords you have targeted in your Google Ads campaign.
Google Matches Your Keywords: Google identifies if the search terms are relevant to your selected keywords.
Your Ad Appears Near Search Results: If relevant, your ad is displayed near the search results on Google’s search engine results page.
Ads on Other Google Sites: Your ads may also be shown on other Google-owned websites beyond the main search engine.
No Ads on External Search Sites: Your ads will not appear on third-party search engines like search.com, even if those sites use Google’s search technology.

Real Examples

When a user types “buy running shoes” into Google, your ad for running shoes may appear next to their search results if you have targeted that keyword. This is an example of how the Search Network works by connecting your ad to relevant search queries.

Your ads will show on Google search results pages and other Google platforms, but they won’t be shown on unrelated websites or external search engines that might also use Google technology.

Common Mistakes

Assuming ads will appear on non-Google search engines that use Google’s search technology, like search.com.
Not understanding the distinction between Google’s Search Network and third-party search platforms.
Expecting broader ad placement beyond Google-owned sites within the Search Network.

FAQs

Can my ads appear on any search engine?
Your ads only appear on Google’s search network and Google-owned sites, not on other search engines, even if they use Google search technology.

What types of sites are included in the Search Network?
The Search Network includes Google search results pages and other Google-owned websites but excludes external third-party search platforms.

Key Takeaways

The Search Network shows your ads near Google search results and on other Google-owned sites.
Your ads target relevant search terms that match your selected keywords.
Ads do not appear on third-party search engines like search.com, even if they use Google search technology.