In this article, we will explore the Ad Restrictions Ruleset, a powerful feature within the Ad Restrictions app. The Ad Restrictions app allows you to place limits on the number and type of ads that are shown on a landing page or user session based on referral source simply by creating a 'ruleset'. This article will guide you through the process of creating, managing, and editing these rulesets to optimize your ad strategy efficiently. Whether you're looking to limit ads for a specific user session or just the landing page, we've got you covered. Let's get started!

The Ad Restrictions app is designed to manage and limit the number and types of ads displayed on a landing page or user session based on the referral source. By creating a 'ruleset' in the Ezoic dashboard under 'EzoicAds' > 'Ad Restrictions' > 'Ad Restriction Rulesets', you can control ad combinations effectively.

Creating a Ruleset

1. Navigation: Go to "Ezoic Ads > Ad Restrictions" scroll to the bottom and click the green '+' button under "Ad Restriction Rulesets".
2. Setting Up Rules: You can create a new ad restriction rule by selecting the rule type, pattern type, and entering a value for each. For example, to restrict ads for visitors from Facebook, you would configure:
   • Rule Type: Referrer
   • Pattern Type: contains
   • Rule Value: facebook.com
3. Applying Rules: After setting up the rule, click "create rule". You can name the Ruleset and select whether the restrictions apply to just the landing page or the entire user session.
4. Finalizing: Once ready, select "Create Ruleset".

Managing and Editing Rulesets

After creating a ruleset, it will appear in the Ad Restrictions Ruleset app. To edit:

1. Editing Rules: Click on the small gear icon and select "edit rule" to modify restrictions.
2. Managing Rules: Click on the small gear icon and select "manage rules" to add additional conditions for when the ruleset should be applied.

The app tracks the traffic referral source and applies the rules accordingly, ensuring that ad restrictions are tailored based on how visitors arrive at your page. This allows for nuanced ad management, such as restricting ads only for traffic from specific sources like Facebook campaigns while leaving other traffic sources unaffected.

When setting up ad restrictions, consider the following best practices to optimize your usage:

1. Identify Your Traffic Sources: Before creating rulesets, analyze your traffic sources thoroughly. Understand where the bulk of your traffic is coming from (e.g., Facebook, organic search, direct visits) as this will help you tailor your ad restriction rules more effectively.
2. UTM Parameters for Campaigns: Use UTM parameters for your campaigns to easily identify and create specific rules for different traffic sources. For example, if you're running a Facebook campaign, ensure you tag your URLs with UTM parameters so that you can set precise rules based on that referral source.
3. Apply Rules Strategically: Decide whether the ad restrictions should apply only to the landing page or the entire user session. For instance, if you want to provide a better initial experience, restrict ads only on the landing page. If you want a consistent experience throughout the visit, apply the ruleset to the entire session.
4. Testing and Iteration: Regularly test and review your rulesets. Start with a limited rule application and then gradually expand based on performance data. This helps in finding the right balance between user experience and ad revenue.
5. Naming Conventions: Use clear and descriptive names for your rulesets. This will help you easily identify and manage multiple rulesets, especially when you need to make quick changes or updates.
6. Review Performance Metrics: After setting up your rules, monitor the performance metrics closely. Look at metrics such as bounce rate, session duration, and ad revenue to determine whether the restrictions are positively impacting user experience and business goals.
7. Stay Updated: As referral sources and user behavior can change over time, it's important to regularly update and adjust your rulesets accordingly. Stay informed about any new traffic sources or significant changes in your current sources.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your ad restrictions are effectively enhancing user experience while maintaining optimal ad revenue.