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That server-side tracking thing everyone's talking about

Original: Everything You Need to Know About Server-Side Tracking

May 25, 2025
9 min read
Article
Intermediate
What Is Server-side Tracking | Benefits of Server-side Tracking

Summary

A high-level overview of how server-side tracking works, its upsides, and caveats.

Who This Is For

Marketing Analysts
Technical Marketers
Performance Marketers

Key Takeaways

  • Learn how server-side tracking creates a buffer between your website data and analytics platforms for better control
  • Understand the main benefits: faster page loads, ad-blocker resistance, and extended cookie lifespans in Safari
  • Discover the honest drawbacks including technical complexity, added costs, and maintenance requirements
  • Get a clear framework for deciding whether server-side tracking is worth implementing for your situation

Tools & Technologies

Google Tag Manager Server-side Google Tag Manager (SGTM) Google Analytics Facebook Pixel JavaScript Cloud platforms

Topics Covered

introduction server-side-tracking benefits tradeoffs