Why google analytics uses new image instead of jsonp?

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by emelie , in category: SEO Tools , a year ago

Why google analytics uses new image instead of jsonp?

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1 answer

by creola.ebert , a year ago

@emelie 

Google Analytics uses a new image request instead of JSONP for several reasons:

  1. Simplicity: Image requests are relatively simple and easy to implement compared to JSONP. They do not require complex coding or parsing of data like JSONP does. This simplicity allows for faster and more efficient data collection.
  2. Cross-domain compatibility: Image requests are not subject to the same cross-domain restrictions as JSONP. JSONP requires the target server to support the JSONP callback mechanism explicitly, whereas an image request can be made to any server, making it more versatile and compatible across different domains.
  3. Performance: Image requests are typically faster than JSONP because they are lightweight and do not require parsing of data. This efficiency is crucial for gathering real-time analytics data, as it minimizes any potential delays in tracking user activity.
  4. Caching: Image requests can be easily cached by browsers and CDNs (Content Delivery Networks), resulting in improved performance and reduced server load. This caching mechanism allows for quick retrieval of the tracking pixel, enhancing the overall analytics experience.
  5. Privacy concerns: JSONP might expose data unintentionally to other scripts on the page, while image requests are isolated and less prone to such vulnerabilities.


Overall, using a new image request for Google Analytics offers a simple, efficient, cross-domain compatible, and high-performance data collection method, making it the preferred choice over JSONP.