Technical Task: Implementation of Server-Side Tracking via GTM on VPS

Objective of the task

The goal of this project is to set up a full-fledged server-side analytics system through Google Tag Manager Server-Side (GTM SS), deployed on my VPS.

This is necessary to solve a real business problem:

• Problem: about 30% of conversions are not recorded in Google Analytics 4, and consequently are not transmitted to Google Ads, preventing proper optimization of advertising campaigns.

• Main reason — blocking by browsers (Safari/iOS), AdBlock, cookie restrictions, and client-side tracking limitations.

Solution: implement Server-Side Tracking to send events not through the user's browser, but via my server. This will allow:

• improving the tracking of actual conversions (up to +30%),

• enhancing the quality of advertising optimization (ROAS, CPA),

• integrating Google Ads via server.
  
  

What needs to be done (step-by-step):

1. Server Infrastructure

• Deploy GTM Server-Side container on VPS from Ukraine.com.ua:
  Plan: Dedicated NVMe VPS 2G (1 core, 2 GB RAM, 25 GB SSD).

• The server must be installed using Docker.

• Connect subdomain analytics.welberi.com.

• Configure SSL certificate (Let’s Encrypt).

• Set all necessary A or CNAME records in DNS.
  
  

2. GTM Server-Side Configuration

• Deploy and connect GTM Server-Side container to Google Tag Manager.

• Create necessary Clients (e.g., GA4).

• Test event collection from client-side GTM → server-side GTM.
  
  

3. Google Analytics 4 + Google Ads

• Instead of sending events directly to GA4 from the browser, send them through GTM SS.

• Ensure that events like purchase, begin_checkout, add_to_cart are received by GA4 from the server.

• Ensure proper linking with Google Ads (GCLID / conversion linker).
  
  

4. Testing and Handover

• Conduct testing of tracking through browsers with blockers (Safari, Firefox, AdBlock).

• Verify event transmission to GA4, Ads, FB.

• Provide instructions for future tag updates or changes in GTM SS.

Technical requirements:

• Operating system: Linux (Ubuntu 20.04+)

• Docker + docker-compose

• SSL (Let’s Encrypt)

• Google Tag Manager account with access to Web and Server containers

• Access to DNS for the subdomain

• Browser-based GTM already installed on the website

Desired experience:

• Practical experience deploying GTM Server-Side

• Understanding of GA4, GTM, Conversion APIs (Facebook, TikTok)

• Experience with Docker, SSL, DNS

• Examples of implemented cases — a plus

Expected result:

• GTM Server-Side operates stably 24/7 on dedicated VPS.

• Events are transmitted to GA4 via server, not browser.

• Google Ads begins receiving more real conversions.

• Clear instructions for future updates

Budget:

• Approximately: 5000 UAH

Deadline:

• 3–5 days from the start

• It is preferable to discuss deadlines and stages in advance.

Please let us know if you have experience in this area, how many cases you have completed, and how much time you will need?