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Exploring API options for linking GA4 and UA properties in Google Analytics
Hey there, I’m currently bridging from Universal Analytics over to GA4. With a bunch of properties in the mix, I’m thinking it’s a good move to put together a script using API calls to get these new GA4 properties created. Only thing is, I’m keen to avoid Google duplicating any properties when March rolls in.
So, here’s my plan. I either want to:
1. Connect these new GA4 babies with their UA big brothers, or
2. Flip the switch on the “Automatically set up a basic Google Analytics 4 property” so it doesn’t automatically add another set of properties.You reckon this is possible through an API? Or am I destined to spend my days clicking around the Google Analytics UI manually?
I must confess, I’ve had a bit of a play around with the APIs that are out there for property management and account management (used the current v1beta api reference), but I haven’t found my golden ticket just yet.
Any tips? Just in case you’re keen to look, here’s the link I was using: [Google Developers Link](https://developers.google.com/analytics/devguides/config/admin/v1/rest/v1beta/properties)
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2 Replies
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By using the Google Analytics Data API, it is possible to manage and create GA4 properties, potentially easing the transition from Universal Analytics (UA). You may connect new GA4 “babies” with their UA “big brothers” or try to avoid the automatic duplication of properties using this API. Although navigating this API can be tricky and may require time and effort, it can be a more efficient alternative to manually managing properties in the Google Analytics User Interface (UI). You simply need to understand the parameter adjustments and the scope of the API configuration to find the suited solution for your transition. But as of now, there’s no straightforward method available and requires a bit of trial and error.
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As it currently stands, there doesn’t appear to be an automated way through an API to set up GA4 properties and link them to UA properties, or to disable the automatic setup of GA4 properties. Google has yet to provide this capability via the API. The workaround is to manually configure everything from the Google Analytics UI for now. This might involve more work initially, but it’s the only surefire method to avoid property duplication or other configuration issues as Google transitions from UA to GA4. The API and its reference material has received a lot of attention, but so far it seems to come up short for this particular requirement.
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