Client-side tracking refers to the collection of user data directly in the browser of the visitor. Tracking scripts such as gtag.jsThe cookies, pixels or other technologies are loaded when the page is accessed and send information directly from the user environment to analysis or marketing services such as Google Analytics or Google Ads.
Typical features of client-side tracking:
- Collection of data directly in the browser via JavaScript scripts or Cookies
- Fast implementation by inserting tracking snippets into the page source code
- Direct interaction with the user device (e.g. recording of clicks, scrolls, forms)
- Susceptible to tracking blockers or browser settings that block scripts or cookies
Client-side tracking is the classic and most widespread form of tracking. Website Analytics and in the Google Tag Manager the standard approach. However, it is increasingly being replaced by Server-side tracking The data is supplemented or replaced in order to better fulfil data protection requirements and make data collection more stable.
