[tombrossman]

Tracking server-side is fine, it is assumed the server logs contain a record of my visits and I have no problem with that. I think what most people object to is the third-party tracking that so many people use.

Company A tracking my visits to Company A's website = OK

Company A using Google Analytics to track my visits (while also enabling Google to track me across multiple sites) = Not OK

EDIT: (replying here as we've reached max comment depth) - I was unaware that it is possible to use Google Analytics server-side only (is this true?) but I hope my original point is still clear, DIY tracking is fine.

[JupiterMoon]

I agree with your position. However...

You misunderstand. There have been several commentators here on HN saying that they are moving Google Analytics server side. They seem to think that people are only objecting to the cookie or the presence of the JS rather than objecting to the pervasive cross-site tracking.

[vive-la-liberte]

In that case, f that and f them. Do not track me.

[mhoad]

Are you are aware that Google provide you with a method to do this regardless that doesn't rely on random script blocking? Details here https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout

[malka]

Why would I trust google with this ? I'd rather do it myself.

[JupiterMoon]

Just a little HN tip. If you click the time of the comment you can reply to it even if there is no direct reply link.

[manigandham]

Yes. GA has server-side API's available to premium accounts.

You can also just host the ga.js file yourself. Or run a reverse proxy or any of a dozen other methods to collect data and pass it to GA. Using the standard 3rd party tag is just for convenience.

[lstamour]

FYI, server-side APIs don't require premium accounts. :)

I'm pretty sure it's the same mechanism used for mobile/app non-browser tracking.

[malka]

how can GA correlate between site then ? The server-side does not have access to my GA cookie. Browser fingerprinting ?

[manigandham]

Yes, cookies are outdated and just a fallback. Also, unless you never go to a google-owned domain name, you'll be cookied regardless.