How to Add Google Analytics

This article shows you how to add Google Analytics to your WordPress website on Web60.

Step 1: Create Your Google Analytics Account

Go to analytics.google.com and sign in with your Google account. If you don't have a Google account, create one first.

Click "Start measuring" and enter your website details:

Account name: Your business name
Property name: Your website name
Select "Web" as your platform
Enter your website URL

Google will generate a tracking code that looks like "G-XXXXXXXXXX". Copy this code - you'll need it in the next step.

Step 2: Log Into Your WordPress Dashboard

Open your web browser and go to yourwebsite.ie/wp-admin (replace "yourwebsite.ie" with your actual domain name).

Enter the username and password you received when Web60 set up your website. If you can't find these details, check your welcome email or contact support.

Step 3: Install a Google Analytics Plugin

In your WordPress dashboard, click "Plugins" in the left menu, then "Add New".

Search for "Site Kit by Google". This is Google's official plugin and the easiest way to connect Analytics.

Click "Install Now" next to "Site Kit by Google", then click "Activate".

Step 4: Connect Your Google Analytics

After activating Site Kit, you'll see a setup wizard. Click "Start setup".

The plugin will ask you to sign in with your Google account. Use the same account where you created Google Analytics.

Grant the requested permissions - Site Kit needs these to connect your website to Analytics.

Select your Google Analytics property from the list, or create a new one if prompted.

Step 5: Verify It's Working

Go back to analytics.google.com and click on your website property.

Open your website in a new browser tab and browse around for a few minutes.

Return to Google Analytics and check the "Real-time" report. You should see at least 1 active user (yourself).

If you don't see any data, wait 24 hours. Google Analytics can take time to start showing information.

Alternative Method: Manual Code Installation

If you prefer not to use a plugin, you can add the tracking code manually:

In WordPress, go to "Appearance" > "Theme Editor"
Select "header.php" from the file list
Find the </head> tag
Paste your Google Analytics code just before </head>
Click "Update File"

Warning: Only use this method if you're comfortable editing code. Mistakes can break your website.

What Happens Next

Google Analytics will start collecting data about your website visitors. You can see which pages are popular, where visitors come from, and how long they stay on your site.

Data appears in your Google Analytics dashboard within 24-48 hours of installation.

If you're still stuck with adding Google Analytics, contact Web60 support through your client area or email hello@web60.ie.

FAQ

Q: How long does Google Analytics take to show data?

A: Google Analytics typically shows data within 24-48 hours after installation. Real-time reports may show activity immediately, but full reports need more time.

Q: Do I need to pay for Google Analytics?

A: Google Analytics is free for most small businesses. Google offers a paid version called Analytics 360, but the free version has everything most websites need.

Q: Will Google Analytics slow down my website?

A: Google Analytics has minimal impact on website speed. The tracking code is lightweight and loads asynchronously, so it won't affect your visitors' experience.

Q: Can I use Google Analytics with other tracking tools?

A: Yes, you can use Google Analytics alongside other tools like Facebook Pixel or other analytics services. Each tool provides different insights about your visitors.

Q: What if I accidentally delete the Google Analytics code?

A: If you remove the tracking code, Google Analytics will stop collecting new data, but your historical data remains safe. Simply reinstall the code to resume tracking.

Q: Do I need a new Google Analytics code if I change my website?

A: If you keep the same domain name, you can use the same tracking code. If you change domains, you'll need to update your Google Analytics property settings.

Q: Can I see who visits my website with Google Analytics?

A: Google Analytics doesn't show personal information about individual visitors. It provides anonymous data about visitor behavior, location, and how they found your website.