GA4 Cross-Domain Tracking: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to set up Google Analytics 4 (GA4) Cross-Domain Tracking to track users across multiple domains accurately.
What is Cross-Domain Tracking in GA4?
Cross-domain tracking in GA4 allows you to track users as they navigate across multiple domains under your control. This is crucial for businesses operating multiple websites or subdomains.
Why is Cross-Domain Tracking Important?
- Maintains user session consistency.
- Prevents inflated user counts.
- Provides a unified view of user behavior across domains.
How to Set Up GA4 Cross-Domain Tracking
1. Access GA4 Admin Settings
Navigate to your GA4 account and go to Admin → Data Streams → Select your web data stream.
2. Configure Cross-Domain Tracking
Under Tagging Settings, click on Configure your domains. Add the domains you want to track.
3. Implement GA4 Tags in Google Tag Manager (GTM)
- Open GTM and go to your GA4 Configuration Tag.
- Under Fields to Set, add a field named allow_google_signals with the value true.
- Save and publish your changes.
4. Test Your Cross-Domain Tracking
Use the GA4 DebugView or the Google Tag Assistant Chrome extension to verify if user sessions persist across domains.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Issue 1: Users Are Counted Multiple Times
Ensure all domains are properly added to the cross-domain list in GA4.
Issue 2: Sessions Are Not Carrying Over
Make sure your GA4 Configuration Tag in GTM includes linker parameter enabled.
