Should I use the ID or the full path for the google_product_category attribute?

You can use either the numeric ID 5299 or the full path string. The ID is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors.

Is it mandatory to include the google_product_category in my feed?

It is optional, but highly recommended. If you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize your product automatically, which may result in incorrect classification.

Does this category require extra attributes like gender or age_group?

No. These attributes are primarily used for apparel items. For software, focusing on correct categorization helps with proper policy application.

Google product category

Antivirus & Security Software

Category ID5299

Full path for the feedSoftware > Computer Software > Antivirus & Security Software

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Norton 360 Deluxe
McAfee Total Protection
Bitdefender Total Security
AVAST Premium
F-Secure Total
Webroot Internet Security Plus Antivirus
ESET NOD32 Antivirus
Malwarebytes Premium
Panda Antivirus Cleaner with Dome Complete
Total Defense Ultimate Internet Security Software
Trend Micro Antivirus
CrowdStrike Falcon Go Cybersecurity
Watchdog Anti-Virus
TotalAV Internet Security
McAfee LiveSafe

Understanding the Antivirus & Security Software Category

The Antivirus & Security Software category is identified by the numeric ID 5299 and is part of the Software branch. It is a level-three classification designed to house digital products specifically built to protect devices from cyber threats.

Products Belonging in This Category

This category is intended for comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and individual protection software. Based on items found in the US market, this includes:

Antivirus engines and comprehensive internet security suites
Cybersecurity software for individual and professional endpoint protection
Total protection packages that include firewall, antimalware, and threat detection
Premium software subscriptions that guard against viruses, ransomware, and phishing

Products That Do Not Belong Here

Do not use this category for general office software or utilities. If your product falls into these groups, please use the following alternatives:

Computer Utilities & Maintenance Software for system optimization or driver tools
Office Application Software for word processors, spreadsheets, and suites
Business & Productivity Software for enterprise management or non-security tools
Network Software for server-side management or firewall hardware configuration

Feed Implementation

To include this in your feed, use either the ID 5299 or the full path: Software > Computer Software > Antivirus & Security Software. While this attribute is optional, providing it manually prevents Google from miscategorizing your products, as the system does not require specific apparel-related attributes like color or size for this category.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID or the full path for the google_product_category attribute?: You can use either the numeric ID 5299 or the full path string. The ID is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors.
Is it mandatory to include the google_product_category in my feed?: It is optional, but highly recommended. If you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize your product automatically, which may result in incorrect classification.
Does this category require extra attributes like gender or age_group?: No. These attributes are primarily used for apparel items. For software, focusing on correct categorization helps with proper policy application.

This category in other languages

ru: Программное обеспечение > Программное обеспечение для компьютеров > Антивирусное программное обеспечение
uk: Програмне забезпечення > Програмне забезпечення для комп'ютерів > Антивірусне програмне забезпечення