TrafficGuard runs in one of two protection modes: Detection or Prevention. Your mode determines what happens when invalid traffic is identified on your Google Ads account.
Detection mode
In Detection mode, TrafficGuard monitors your Google Ads traffic in real-time using over 200 indicators and machine learning. When invalid traffic is detected, it is reported in your dashboard — but no automated action is taken.
This mode gives you full visibility into how invalid traffic is impacting your campaigns, by campaign, ad group, and keyword. It's a great starting point for understanding the scale of the problem before moving to automated protection.
Prevention mode
In Prevention mode, TrafficGuard automatically adds sources of invalid traffic to your Google Ads IP exclusion list via the Google Ads API. Your ads stop being shown to those sources in real-time — no manual action needed.
TrafficGuard continuously adds, removes, and reprioritises IPs based on the most current threats, so your campaigns are always protected.
ℹ️ Shield trial (Detection only)
Prevention mode is not available during the free Shield trial. The Protection mode selector will be visible but Prevention will be locked until you activate your paid subscription.
Which mode should you use?
Start with Detection if you want to understand your invalid traffic exposure before taking action. Use Prevention when you're ready for TrafficGuard to manage your Google Ads exclusions automatically and protect your ad spend in real-time.
How to switch your protection mode
Log in to your TrafficGuard dashboard.
Navigate to the Settings page > Protection settings
Under Protection mode, select Detection or Prevention.
Click Save changes to confirm.
Your dashboard will update immediately to reflect your new mode.