Google Analytics is currently installed on 29.3 million websites worldwide. This is approximately 9 percent of all websites on the internet across the entire globe. Last October, Google announced their plans to release Google Analytics 4 by the end of this year. The wait is finally over and the platform has been made available to marketers. We have complied a few steps on how to install Google Analytics 4 below.
Google Analytics 4 is an extension of the App+Web property that was also introduced last year. The new GA4 allows for enhanced features such as:
- predictive insights
- deeper integration with Google Ads
- cross device measurements
- alerts for marketers to changes in data trends
- code-less event tracking
How To Install Google Analytics 4
Before we get started, we recommend installing the traditional universal analytics code in parallel with the new Google Analytics 4 tracking code. We will cover the steps for the ideal installation methods below.
Step 1
Install traditional Google Analytics tracking code on your website. If you haven’t already, we recommend placing this code in the global header or footer area on your website. You can verify the code is working properly by viewing the real-time data tab on the left.
Step 2
Navigate to your Google Analytics account and click on the Admin section. Under the Property column you will see a link called Upgrade to GA4. Click Upgrade to GA4.
Step 3
Next, click on Get Started in the “I need to Create a New Google Analytics 4 Property” box.
Step 4
After clicking “Get Started” you will receive a popup window like the screenshot below. You may need to authorize popups to display from GA in your browser settings. Once the popup appears, Click Create Property to start the wizard.
Step 5
When the next page of the setup wizard loads, you will be presented with a few options. Click on tag installation and navigate to the next screen to find your new tracking code.
Note: Google Analytics will automatically connect to the old version of the tracking code on your website. We recommend installing the new GA4 tracking code.
Step 6
Place the tracking code between the <head></head> tags on your website.
If you’re using Google Tag Manager: navigate to your Google Tag Manager account, create a new tag, and select Google Analytics: GA4 Configuration. Copy and paste your measurement ID which is found under the Data Streams section.
Step 7
Once your tracking code has been installed you will see the following message appear. The connected message means you have successfully installed Google Analytics 4 and you are ready to view your new property!
Summary
Once the property is completed, you will notice a second blank View under your website name property. The new property for Google Analytics 4 is setup as a new view and will not contain historical data. Don’t worry! You can still access the old universal property and all historical data under the other view.
The process is simple as long as you can add the tracking code properly. We hope our tutorial about how to install Google Analytics 4 has helped you present your customers with new valuable data. If you need assistance with installation contact Yooter today and we will be glad to help.
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