What's the difference between (not provided) and (not set), and how can I correct it?

When you examine your website's data in Google Analytics, you may see the words "(not provided)" or "(not set)". It's crucial to understand the distinction between these two expressions and how to resolve them. This, in order to obtain a precise traffic analysis on your web page. You also need to know the origin of "(not provided)" and "(not set)" before you can understand how users behave on your site.

Exploring the intricacies of the "(not set)" displayed by Google Analytics

"(Not set)" is displayed in Google Analytics to indicate that lack of specific data on a web page. The display "(Not set)" occurs if there is :

• Configuration errors on the web page, 
• Missing or incorrect URL parameters. 

It's also possible that certain user actions don't allow specific data to be collected. In this case, you need to understand and resolve the origin of the "(Not set)" displayed by Google Analytics. This ensures that Google Analytics reports provide complete and useful information for decision-making.

To remedy cases of "(Not set)" in Google Analytics, it is important to follow the steps below:

• check your tracking configuration. Make sure that the Google Analytics tracking code is correctly installed on all pages of your website. 
• take a close look at URL parameters such as UTM tags.
• make sure tags are correctly configured and present.

In addition, you need to identify any technical limitations that could hinder the collection of certain data. For example, check whether script blockers or browser extensions interfere with tracking. Consider notifying and training users to disable these elements. At the same time, explore alternative tracking methods that are not affected by these limitations.

Once these steps have been completed, proceed with the extensive testing to validate the changes you've made. Be sure to check Google Analytics reports regularly to confirm that any missing data has been captured.

Finally, maintain a continuous monitoring to detect any reappearance of "(Not set)" by Google Analytics. If this is the case, react quickly to resolve the type of problem that triggers it. Make sure you also follow good tracking practices and keep your configurations up to date.

What about the term "(Not Provided)"?

"(Not Provided)" in Google Analytics indicates that organic keywords are hidden and are not disclosed. Google has implemented this type of privacy policy to protect users' personal information.

Not Provided is triggered when users perform searches connected to their Google account. As a result, website owners can no longer see the exact keywords that drove organic traffic to their site. This makes it more difficult to understand exactly how users find a specific web page. 

Unfortunately, there's no direct solution for retrieving the actual keywords from "(Not Provided)" in Google Analytics. However, alternative approaches can be explored.

First, take advantage of Google Search Console for further information on organic search queries.

Here are the steps for using Google Search Console: 

• Log in to Google Analytics 
• In the left-hand menu, click on "Acquisition". 
• You'll see "Search Console" in the drop-down menu. Click on it. 
• Select "Landing Pages" to display your site's main landing pages.
• You can select the pages you want to know more about.
• Unlock keywords not supplied 
• Check which keywords you're positioning yourself on.

At the same time, it is advisable to explore other tools and data sources to resolve the Not Provided concern. Third-party keyword analysis tools can provide you with relevant keyword suggestions. You can also consult user surveys to better understand their search intentions.