How do I test the AdWords Ad link externally (not from the system)?

To test an AdWords ad link externally, ensuring it directs users to the correct landing page and functions as intended, you can follow these steps:

Verify the Destination URL

• Check that the final URL of your ad matches the display URL. You can do this by hovering over the ad, checking the disapproval email if the ad was disapproved, or using Google Search Console2.

Check for Redirects

• Ensure there are no redirects from the final URL that take users to a different domain. If there are redirects, make sure they lead to the intended content2.

Use Tracking Templates Correctly

• If you are using third-party tracking systems, ensure that the tracking template or expanded URL does not lead to different content than the final URL. Add the ignore parameter before the tracking parameter in your final URL if necessary2.

Manual Testing

• Manually click on the ad link from outside the Google Ads system to ensure it directs you to the correct landing page. This can be done by copying the ad URL and pasting it into a browser or by having someone else click on the ad from a different location.

Real-Time Monitoring

• Use Google Tag Manager (GTM) or Google Analytics to monitor real-time events and ensure that the external link is being tracked correctly. For example, you can set up an event tag in GTM to track outbound links, which will help you verify if users are being directed to the correct external URL1.

A/B Testing Considerations

• If you are conducting A/B testing, ensure that each variant of the ad receives a significant number of clicks (at least 100) to obtain statistically significant results. Properly use UTM tags and advanced targeting engines to accurately attribute user behavior35.

By following these steps, you can effectively test your AdWords ad links externally and ensure they are functioning correctly.