Server-side Google Analytics is a method for tracking website traffic and user behavior that is implemented on the server-side of a website, rather than on the client-side (i.e., in the web browser).
In a typical client-side implementation of Google Analytics, a JavaScript tracking code is placed on the website, and data is collected and sent to the Google Analytics servers when a user visits the site.
With server-side tracking, the tracking code is executed on the server, and data is collected and sent to the Google Analytics servers when a server-side event occurs (e.g., when a user makes a purchase or submits a form). This can be more efficient and reliable than client-side tracking, especially in cases where users have JavaScript disabled or are using ad blockers.
Server-side tracking requires the use of a server-side language such as PHP or Node.js, and can be implemented using the Measurement Protocol, which is a set of APIs provided by Google Analytics.
Google provides documentation on server-side tracking with Google Analytics.
To learn more about server-side tracking and how to implement it using the Measurement Protocol, you can refer to the following resources:
The Measurement Protocol Developer Guide: This guide provides an overview of the Measurement Protocol and explains how to use it to send data to Google Analytics.
The Measurement Protocol Parameter Reference: This reference provides detailed information on the different parameters that can be used with the Measurement Protocol, including descriptions, required values, and examples.
The Measurement Protocol Validation Server: This tool allows you to test your Measurement Protocol requests to make sure they are correctly formatted and will be accepted by the Google Analytics servers.
These resources should provide you with the information you need to implement server-side tracking with Google Analytics. If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can also ask the Google Analytics team for help.