GoatCounter

GoatCounter is a privacy-focused web analytics platform that provides meaningful insights without tracking personal data. Available as both a hosted service and self-hosted solution, it offers a lightweight alternative to traditional analytics tools.

Key Features

• Privacy-First Analytics:

  • No personal data collection
  • No unique user tracking
  • GDPR-compliant by design
  • No cookie notices required
  • Configurable data collection
  • Anonymous visitor counting

• Lightweight Integration:

  • ~3.5KB JavaScript snippet
  • No-JavaScript tracking pixel option
  • Backend middleware integration
  • Log file importing
  • Multiple tracking methods
  • Minimal performance impact

• Comprehensive Statistics:

  • Browser information
  • Geographic location
  • Screen size metrics
  • Referrer tracking
  • Campaign monitoring
  • Custom event tracking

• User-Friendly Features:

  • Simple, clean interface
  • Accessibility focused
  • Easy data export
  • API access
  • Multi-site support
  • Custom domains

Who Should Use GoatCounter

GoatCounter is ideal for:

• Privacy-Conscious Users seeking GDPR-compliant analytics
• Developers wanting lightweight site monitoring
• Organizations requiring self-hosted solutions
• Website Owners needing simple, effective analytics

Getting Started

GoatCounter offers multiple deployment options:

1. Hosted Service:

   • Sign up at goatcounter.com
   • Add tracking code to site
   • Start collecting data

2. Self-Hosted:

   # Download and run binary
   ./goatcounter serve
   
   # Create initial site
   ./goatcounter db create site \
     -vhost stats.example.com \
     -user.email [email protected]
   

The platform provides immediate analytics capabilities while maintaining strong privacy standards and offering flexible deployment options.