Get started with GA4 serverside tracking in 10 easy to follow to steps

In the dynamic realm of digital analytics, maintaining a competitive edge demands a strategic integration of advanced tools and methodologies. Unlock the potential of your analytics game with the powerful combination of Google Analytics 4 (GA4) and server-side tracking, paving the way for enhanced insights and comprehensive data analysis in a cookieless world.

Create a Google Cloud Project:

• Go to Google Cloud Console.
• Make a new project or select an existing one.

Enable Google Analytics API:

• In the Cloud Console, find API & Services > Dashboard.
• Click on “+ ENABLE APIS AND SERVICES.”
• Search for “Google Analytics API” and enable it.

Make a Service Account and Get JSON Key:

• In the Cloud Console, go to API & Services > Credentials.
• Create a new service account.
• Assign the “Editor” role.
• Download the JSON key file linked to the service account.

Set Up Server-Side Container in Google Tag Manager:

• Open Google Tag Manager.
• Navigate to your container.
• In the “Admin” section, choose the container.
• Click on “Add Server” under the “Server Container” section.

Configure Server Container Settings:

• Give your container a nickname.
• Upload the downloaded JSON key file.
• Adjust data sharing settings as needed.

Add a Tag in Server-Side Container:

• Inside the server container, create a new tag.
• Choose “Google Analytics” tag type.
• Select “Google Analytics 4.”
• Input your Google Analytics property’s tracking ID.

Configure Tag Triggers and Variables:

• Define when the tag should fire (triggers).
• Set up variables to catch dynamic data (like page URL, user ID).

Publish Changes:

• Once configured, publish your changes in Google Tag Manager.

Test and Debug:

• Use Google Tag Manager’s Preview mode to test server-side tags.
• Confirm that data is reaching Google Analytics as expected.

Deploy to Production:

• After successful testing, submit the server container for deployment to your live website or app.