GoatCounter Web Analytics

This open-source web analytics platform provides privacy-friendly, GDPR-compliant visitor tracking without cookies or personal data collection, positioned as a lightweight alternative to Google Analytics and Matomo. Created by Martin Tournoij and supported by NLnet Foundation through the NGI0 grant program, the platform adds just 3.5 kilobytes to a website via a single async script tag. Unique visits are tracked without cookies or persistent personal data storage, using an ephemeral session identifier derived from IP address and browser fingerprint that is never persisted, eliminating GDPR consent banner requirements for most jurisdictions. For JavaScript-free environments, a tracking pixel option enables server-side or image-based collection, and the platform also supports backend middleware integration and raw log file import for server-side analytics. Statistics include browser information, geographic location, screen size, referring sites, and campaign tracking with UTM parameter support. The interface is designed with accessibility as a high priority, functioning correctly with screen readers and assistive technology. The hosted service is offered free for reasonable usage including personal websites and small-to-medium business analytics. Self-hosting supports unlimited traffic and is recommended for high-volume deployments. Data ownership is absolute with full export capability and no lock-in. The source code is developed openly on GitHub under the European Union Public License. The platform ignores the Do Not Track header by design, since it does not track personal data in the first place.