Should I use the ID or the full string for category 2455?

Both are accepted by Google, but using the numeric ID 2455 is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed.

Is it mandatory to provide a google_product_category for every item?

It is optional, but highly recommended. Providing this information ensures Google classifies your products accurately, which can lead to better visibility compared to relying on automated categorization.

How does this differ from the product_type attribute?

The google_product_category is a standardized classification from Google's taxonomy, whereas product_type is a free-form attribute where you can use your own internal store categorization.

Google product category

Hubs & Switches

Category ID2455

Full path for the feedElectronics > Networking > Hubs & Switches

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

TP-Link Desktop Switch
Netgear Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch
Cudy Network Switch Gigabit Ethernet
TRENDnet Gigabit EdgeSmart PoE+ Switch
Ubiquiti Flex Mini Switch
Netgear Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch
TP-LINK Multi-Gigabit Desktop Switch
Ubiquiti Switch
Grandstream Unmanaged Switch
TP-Link Easy Smart Switch
Monoprice Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch
Managed Gigabit Switch
Ubiquiti Switch Ultra
Cisco Ethernet Switch
D-Link Switch Smart

Understanding the Hubs & Switches Category

The Hubs & Switches category, identified by Google product category ID 2455, encompasses hardware devices designed to connect multiple network segments or devices within a local area network. This category resides under Electronics > Networking > Hubs & Switches, serving as the most specific classification for this type of networking equipment.

Included Products

This category is intended for hardware that facilitates data transmission between connected devices. Examples of products from the US market include:

Desktop Ethernet switches
Gigabit unmanaged and managed switches
Multi-gigabit desktop switches
Smart and EdgeSmart PoE+ switches
Compact or mini network switches

Products That Belong Elsewhere

Avoid placing items here that function primarily as gateways, wireless access points, or specialized security hardware. If your product is a router, bridge, modem, or a wireless repeater, it belongs in the Bridges & Routers, Modems, or Repeaters & Transceivers categories. Similarly, Network Security & Firewall Devices should be used for dedicated security appliances, while Power Over Ethernet Adapters are specifically for injectors that do not act as data switching hubs.

Feed Implementation

To categorize these items correctly, use either the numeric ID 2455 or the full path string: Electronics > Networking > Hubs & Switches. While providing this attribute is optional, explicit categorization ensures Google applies the correct performance attributes to your products, as automated systems may otherwise misclassify your hardware.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID or the full string for category 2455?: Both are accepted by Google, but using the numeric ID 2455 is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed.
Is it mandatory to provide a google_product_category for every item?: It is optional, but highly recommended. Providing this information ensures Google classifies your products accurately, which can lead to better visibility compared to relying on automated categorization.
How does this differ from the product_type attribute?: The google_product_category is a standardized classification from Google's taxonomy, whereas product_type is a free-form attribute where you can use your own internal store categorization.

This category in other languages

ru: Электроника > Сетевое оборудование > Сетевые концентраторы и коммутаторы
uk: Електроніка > Мережеве обладнання > Мережеві концентратори та комутатори