Can we track page visitors without using external trackers?

[jmaassen]

The question came up in the DCC meeting if it would be possible to track the number of page visitors for a software page, preferably without using external services such as google analytics (which may no longer be allowed in the EU due to GDPR issues). We could then show this as a metric on the software page (or private metrics page for this software if needed).

[ewan-escience]

How would we define a page visitor? Does each refresh count? Or will we track IP addresses or will we fingerprint visitors in a different way?

We can create a solution ourselves or look at self hosted Google Analytics alternatives like Plausible or Matomo. More alternatives here.

[ctwhome]

Plausible.io is an European provider that doesn't requires to accept cockies because it complies fully with GDPR.
It could be a very interesting option to look at

From their website.
"No cookies and fully compliant with GDPR, CCPA and PECR. Made and hosted in the EU, powered by European-owned cloud infrastructure 🇪🇺"

Some recognized front end developers are talking very well about this serviceb they describe as the Google analitics without the complexity. And it is also Open Source.