What Is the Google Analytics Tracking ID Code?
Google Analytics tracking ID code is a unique identifier that allows Google Analytics to collect data when inserted into a website. This data includes the time users spend on a webpage, search terms used, and how they came to the site.
The tracking code is the mechanism by which Google Analytics compiles data. It consolidates this data into reports, using graphs and other visuals to display the results.
You’ll need to add your code directly into the site’s HTML. There are also CMS plugins (such as those for WordPress) that will serve the same function. Once applied, the code adds a cookie to the browser of a website’s users, which returns data to Google Analytics.
Before you get to embedding your code, you’ll need to make sure you’ve set up a Google Analytics account. Older accounts may use Universal Analytics, while newer accounts will be set up with Google Analytics 4 by default. You’ll then need to set up a property to link the website with your account.
The code itself is a string of numbers and letters. The first letters denote the version of Google Analytics, while the long string of numbers corresponds to your account ID. The last section is the property index:
How To Find Google Analytics Tracking ID
Once you’ve signed up for Google Analytics, you’ll be able to retrieve your tracking ID.
Universal Analytics
To find your Universal Analytics Tracking ID:
- Open Google Analytics
- Click the ‘Admin’ tab
- In the left-hand column, click Tracking Info
- Click ‘Tracking Code’
- Your code will be available here. For Universal Analytics users, the codes start with “UA.”
GA4 Measurement ID
To find your Google Analytics 4 Measurement ID:
- Open Google Analytics
- Click the ‘Admin’ tab
- In the left-hand column, click Data Streams
- Select a data stream from the list
- Your code will appear in the top right-hand corner of the page. For GA4 users, the codes start with “G.”
How to Implement Tracking ID on Your Website
There are two main ways to use the Tracking ID: embedding the code directly into the website’s HTML or utilizing a CMS plugin. You’ll need to have your ID handy for either method.
- For CMS like WordPress, you can collect Google Analytics data by installing a third-party app. You’ll need to download the app and follow the instructions to link it with your Google account. From there, you’ll need to connect it with the website to be tracked and add your Tracking ID.
- For websites that don’t support third-party apps, you’ll need to add your code directly. As you’ll find your Tracking ID (see instructions above), you should see a string of JavaScript code under the heading Global Site Tag on the same page. To start tracking, you’ll need to copy and paste this code into the <head> tags of web pages.
You can verify that your tracking is working by viewing real-time data as it’s collected. To do this, navigate to the associated property in your Google Analytics account, then open Reporting from the left-hand panel. Select Real-Time followed by Overview.
Use Google Analytics ID to Track User Data
Utilizing your Google Analytics ID is the first step to collecting and analyzing useful user data. Follow the steps in this guide to connect your site to Google Analytics, then use the tools above to understand better the data you see.
