Free Website Analytics Summary

Google Analytics

• Pros:
  • Provides comprehensive data and insights on website traffic and user behavior.
  • Useful for web developers to study browser usage and user journeys.
• Cons:
  • Some users argue that it can trap them in a recommendation cloud.
  • May lead to tracking and targeted advertising.

Ghostery and Similar Privacy Add-ons

• Pros:
  • Allows users to block tracking cookies and data collection.
  • Some users appreciate the privacy features against data tracking.
• Cons:
  • The effectiveness in preventing NSA spying is questioned.
  • Blocking analytics tools may hinder web development and user experience improvements.

Other Analytics Tools

• Similarweb and BuiltWith:
  • Offer alternatives for traffic analysis and technology tracking on websites.
• Netcraft:
  • Provides website report services.

General Discussion

• Users have varying opinions on online privacy and the use of analytics tools.
• Concerns about data privacy, NSA surveillance, and the impact on web development and user experiences.

Conclusion

Google Analytics is a popular choice for free website analytics, providing valuable insights for web developers. Ghostery and other privacy add-ons offer ways to block tracking cookies, but the effectiveness in preventing NSA spying is debated. Overall, the discussion highlights the complexities of online privacy, analytics, and data tracking in the digital age.