Adding ads.txt file to your WordPress website is a straightforward process. This file is essential to verify your site’s ad inventory and protect it from ad fraud. In a nutshell, you’ll be accessing your site’s root directory, creating an ads.txt file, adding your publisher ID, and then uploading it to your website. After reading this brief overview, you should have a general idea of how to add an ads.txt file in WordPress.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Add ads.txt File in WordPress
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. By following these steps, we’ll be creating and uploading an ads.txt file to your WordPress site. This file is crucial for your ad revenue, as it tells the world which ad networks have permission to sell your ad space. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Access your WordPress site’s root directory
To add an ads.txt file, you need to access your site’s root directory via FTP or your web host’s file manager.
Accessing your WordPress site’s root directory might sound like a high-tech operation, but it’s really quite simple. The root directory is where your site’s main files are stored, including the all-important wp-config.php file. You can usually access this through your web hosting control panel or by using an FTP client like FileZilla.
Step 2: Create a new ads.txt file
Once in the root directory, create a new text file and name it ads.txt.
Creating a new file is as easy as right-clicking (or using the appropriate command on your control panel) and choosing to create a new file. Remember to name it exactly "ads.txt" – the name is case sensitive and should not be altered.
Step 3: Add your publisher ID to the ads.txt file
Open the new file and add your advertising platform’s publisher ID in the format specified by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB).
Your publisher ID is a unique string of numbers and letters provided to you by your advertising platform (like Google AdSense). Adding it to your ads.txt file is like putting your name on your mailbox. It tells the ad networks that you’re the rightful owner and where to send your ad revenue.
Step 4: Save the ads.txt file
After adding your publisher details, save the ads.txt file.
Just like saving any document, you want to make sure all your changes are stored correctly. It’s a good practice to double-check the information you’ve entered before saving the file.
Step 5: Upload the ads.txt file to your root directory
Upload the saved ads.txt file back to your site’s root directory.
Uploading the file puts it in the right place for ad networks and verification services to find it. It’s like putting a sign on your front door that tells visitors they’re in the right place.
After completing these steps, your WordPress site will have a valid ads.txt file that communicates with ad platforms. This will ensure that your ad revenue goes to the right place and can increase your website’s trustworthiness among advertisers.
Tips: Mastering the Process of Adding ads.txt File in WordPress
- Always double-check the publisher ID and the format before saving your ads.txt file to avoid any errors.
- If you’re not comfortable accessing your site’s root directory, consider using a WordPress plugin that can create and manage the ads.txt file for you.
- Keep your ads.txt file updated. If you change ad providers or get new publisher IDs, update the file accordingly.
- Regularly check that your ads.txt file is accessible by visiting
http://yourwebsite.com/ads.txt. If it’s set up correctly, you should see the contents of your file. - Having an ads.txt file is crucial if you’re monetizing your site with ads. It’s an industry-standard that adds a layer of security for advertisers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ads.txt file?
An ads.txt file is a simple text file that publishers can create to list all the advertising platforms that are authorized to sell their digital ad inventory.
Why do I need an ads.txt file on my WordPress site?
An ads.txt file helps protect your ad inventory from ad fraud and ensures that only authorized sellers can sell your ad space, which can lead to better ad revenue.
Can I create an ads.txt file directly from my WordPress dashboard?
No, WordPress does not have a built-in feature to create an ads.txt file, but there are plugins available that make the process easy.
What if I have multiple publisher IDs from different ad platforms?
You can list multiple publisher IDs in your ads.txt file, each on a new line, following the correct format for each platform.
How often should I update my ads.txt file?
You should update your ads.txt file whenever you change ad providers or receive new publisher IDs.
Summary
- Access your WordPress site’s root directory
- Create a new ads.txt file
- Add your publisher ID to the ads.txt file
- Save the ads.txt file
- Upload the ads.txt file to your root directory
Conclusion
Adding an ads.txt file to your WordPress site is an essential step if you’re serious about monetizing your website with ads. It’s a clear statement to ad exchanges and programmatic advertisers that you’re an authentic publisher, which can lead to higher ad revenue and better protection against ad fraud. While the task may seem daunting at first, with a little practice, it becomes a straightforward process. Remember to keep your ads.txt file up to date with any changes in your ad network partnerships. If you ever find yourself confused, refer back to this guide or consider reaching out to your ad network for assistance. Happy monetizing!
Matt has been working with WordPress and creating content using this powerful content management system for years. While he has written about many other tech topics, WordPress is one of his favorites.
You can read his full bio here.