GA4 Introduction and Basic Concepts
Understand GA4 core features and differences from Universal Analytics, master the new generation website analytics tool.
What is GA4?
Google Analytics 4 is Google's new generation website analytics tool, using an event-based data model with stronger cross-platform tracking capabilities and AI-driven insights.
Event-Based Tracking
All user interactions are treated as events, not the traditional session model
Cross-Platform Tracking
Unified analysis for websites and apps with full-channel data integration
GA4 Core Features
AI-Driven Insights
Built-in machine learning algorithms with predictive analytics
Automatically identify anomalous traffic trends
Automatically identify anomalous traffic trends
Privacy-First Design
Complies with GDPR and other privacy regulations
Cookie-independent, event-based tracking model
Cookie-independent, event-based tracking model
Real-Time Reports
View user behavior data instantly
Support real-time traffic monitoring
Support real-time traffic monitoring
Cross-Platform Analysis
Native support for websites and mobile apps
Unified user journey tracking
Unified user journey tracking
GA4 vs Universal Analytics Differences
Understand the key differences between the two generations of analytics tools to help you better complete the migration.
Feature Comparison
Data Model
Universal Analytics: Session + Pageview based
GA4: Event + Parameter based
GA4 is more flexible with custom events
GA4: Event + Parameter based
GA4 is more flexible with custom events
Cross-Platform Support
Universal Analytics: Separate setup required
GA4: Native support, unified analysis
Simplified multi-platform integration
GA4: Native support, unified analysis
Simplified multi-platform integration
Machine Learning
Universal Analytics: Limited features
GA4: Deeply integrated AI
Automatic predictive reports
GA4: Deeply integrated AI
Automatic predictive reports
Data Retention
Universal Analytics: Permanent storage
GA4: Configurable retention period
Note data expiration settings
GA4: Configurable retention period
Note data expiration settings
Key Reasons to Upgrade to GA4
- Universal Analytics support has ended - No new data processing since July 1, 2023
- More accurate cross-device tracking - User ID and event-based tracking is more precise
- Better privacy protection - Complies with latest privacy regulations
- More detailed user behavior analysis - Supports funnel analysis and path tracking
- AI-powered prediction capabilities - Predict user purchase intent and churn risk