Google Ads is an online advertising platform that allows businesses to promote their products and services to potential customers across Google’s advertising network. Businesses can use Google Ads to reach people through search results, YouTube, websites, apps, Maps and other eligible Google advertising channels.Creating a Google Ads account is the first step toward running paid advertising campaigns. During account setup, Google asks for important business information and guides you through campaign goals, budget and billing details. You can also connect relevant Google services, such as a Google Business Profile or YouTube channel, where applicable.In this guide, we explain how to create a Google Ads account in 2026, what information you need, how to set up billing, how to connect your business assets and what to do before launching your first Google Ads campaign.