Video Answer: Difference of (not set) and (not provided)
If you prefer to watch then to read (like i usually do) then please enjoy this video I found by Rosamond Haden-Chomphosy who eloquently sums up the difference between (not set) and (not provided) in Google Analytics.
Written Answer: Difference of (not set) and (not provided)
Not Set- Has Been Around Awhile
Up until now Google has had a (not set) identifier in its Analytics. Not Set means that the user didn’t come to your site through a keyword. They came to your site directly or through a referral site.
Not Provided – New Kid On The Block
If you look at the picture below you’ll see several (not set) identifiers from several sites. There is also a new identifier labeled (not provided). This new identifier came about because Google recently announced that they are encrypting peoples searches. So the not provided search volume is from Google organic search, but could be for several of your keywords.
Remembering The Difference Between (Not Set) and (Not Provided)
(Not Set) = Not Search Engine, Referrals and Direct links
(Not Provided) = Protected by Google encryption
About Benjamin Beck
I work as a SEO Associate for SEER Interactive where I tackle getting my clients better rankings on search engines. I like finding creative new ways of marketing online through SEO and social media. When I am not working I enjoy micro-lending and checking tasks off of my bucket list.
