How to Add ads.txt File in WordPress: A Step-by-Step Guide

 If you are a WordPress user looking to optimize your ad revenue and comply with industry standards, adding an ads.txt file is crucial. The ads.txt (Authorized Digital Sellers) initiative by the IAB Tech Lab helps protect your ad inventory from unauthorized sellers and ensures advertisers can trust your ad space. This guide will walk you through the steps to add an ads.txt file in WordPress.

What is an ads.txt File?

Ads.txt is a simple text file that lists the companies authorized to sell your ad inventory. It acts as a public declaration of the advertising platforms you work with, making it easier for advertisers to verify your inventory and combat ad fraud.

Why Do You Need an ads.txt File?

1. Increased Transparency: It provides transparency about your authorized ad partners.

2. Compliance: Many advertising platforms require an ads.txt file to maximize revenue.

3. Trust: Builds trust with advertisers, as they know the sources of your inventory are legitimate.

How to Add an ads.txt File in WordPress

1. Access Your WordPress Dashboard

Log in to your WordPress admin area using your username and password.

2. Determine the Method

You can add the ads.txt file in WordPress using one of the following methods:

• Using a Plugin

• Manually via cPanel/File Manager

• Using FTP

3. Add ads.txt Using a Plugin

This is the easiest method for beginners.

1. Install and Activate a Plugin

   • Navigate to Plugins > Add New.

   • Search for "ads.txt Manager" or a similar plugin.

   • Click Install Now and then Activate.

2. Configure the Plugin

   • Go to Settings > Ads.txt or the plugin’s menu.

   • Paste your ads.txt content. Example:

     google.com, pub-1234567890123456, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

   • Click Save Changes.

4. Add ads.txt Manually Using cPanel/File Manager

If you’re comfortable working with cPanel:

1. Log in to cPanel

   • Access your hosting control panel.

2. Navigate to the Root Directory

   • Open the File Manager.

   • Go to the root folder of your WordPress site (usually public_html).

3. Create or Upload ads.txt

   • If the file doesn’t exist, create a new file named ads.txt.

   • Add your authorized sellers’ information and save the file.

5. Add ads.txt via FTP

For advanced users comfortable with FTP:

1. Connect to Your Server

   • Use an FTP client like FileZilla to connect to your server.

2. Upload the ads.txt File

   • Navigate to your website’s root directory.

   • Upload the ads.txt file containing your authorized seller information.

6. Verify Your ads.txt File

Once you’ve added the ads.txt file, you need to verify it.

1. Open your browser.

2. Enter your site’s URL followed by /ads.txt. Example: https://yourdomain.com/ads.txt.

3. Check if the file displays correctly.

Best Practices for ads.txt

• Keep the file updated if you add or remove ad networks.

• Ensure the format is correct to avoid errors.

• Regularly verify the file’s accessibility.

Adding an ads.txt file in WordPress is a straightforward yet essential step for maximizing your ad revenue and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Whether you choose a plugin or manual methods, following the steps above will help you protect your ad inventory and foster trust with advertisers. Take action today and secure your advertising space!