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What Is Facebook Ads?
Ads & Paid
Quick Answer
Facebook Ads (now run through Meta Ads Manager, also covering Instagram) is an advertising platform that lets businesses target ads by demographics, interests, and behaviors, rather than by search intent the way Google Ads does.
Facebook Ads vs. Google Ads — What's the Difference?
| Facebook Ads | Google Ads | |
|---|---|---|
| Targeting basis | Demographics, interests, behavior | Active search intent |
| Best for | Discovery, brand awareness | Capturing existing demand |
Why Do Facebook Ads Matter for a Small Business?
- They let you reach people who haven't searched for you yet but match your ideal customer profile.
- Visual, engaging ad formats suit businesses with a strong visual product or service.
How Do Facebook Ads Work?
- Define your target audience by demographics, interests, or behavior.
- Create ad creative (image, video, or carousel) and copy.
- Set a budget — Meta's algorithm optimizes delivery toward people likely to engage or convert.
Key Takeaways
- Facebook Ads target by audience characteristics, not search intent.
- They suit discovery and awareness goals, complementing Google Ads' intent-based approach.
- Local geographic targeting is a particular strength.
How NetNav Helps
NetNav helps confirm your Facebook Pixel and landing pages are correctly set up before you invest ad spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Facebook Ads and Google Ads?
Facebook Ads target people based on who they are and what they're interested in; Google Ads target people based on what they're actively searching for.
Do I need a large following to run Facebook Ads?
No — ads run independently of your existing follower count and reach a targeted audience regardless.
Is Facebook Ads good for local businesses?
Yes — it supports precise geographic targeting, making it well-suited to reaching people in a specific local area.