What is Google Analytics 4 (GA4)? How to Use It (Beginner Guide)
What is Google Analytics 4 (GA4)?
Google Analytics 4 is Google's latest web and app analytics platform. Unlike Universal Analytics, GA4 uses an event-based data model rather than session-based tracking.
GA4 vs Universal Analytics: Key Differences
- Data Model: While UA focused on sessions and pageviews, every interaction in GA4 is recorded as an "event."
- Cross-Platform Tracking: GA4 unifies website and mobile app under a single property.
- Machine Learning Insights: GA4 predicts future user behaviors using AI.
- Privacy-First Design: GA4 uses data modeling to fill in gaps as cookie usage declines.
How to Set Up GA4
Step 1: Create a GA4 Property
Sign in to Google Analytics, go to "Admin" and click "Create Property" selecting GA4.
Step 2: Add a Data Stream
Enter your website URL to create a data stream. Add tracking code using Google Tag Manager or gtag.js.
FAQ
Is GA4 free?
Yes, standard GA4 is completely free. GA4 360 is the paid enterprise version for large-scale businesses.