What does Google Analytics use to differentiate new and returning users?
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Correct answer: A browser cookie, A randomly-assigned unique identifier.
Why this is the answer
Google Analytics uses a combination of a browser cookie and a randomly-assigned unique identifier to differentiate new and returning users. When a user first visits a website, Google Analytics sets a first-party cookie in their browser. This cookie contains a unique client ID, which is a randomly generated string of numbers. This client ID is then used to identify the user on subsequent visits. If the cookie is present, the user is considered returning; if not, they are new. Artificial intelligence is used for advanced analysis, not basic user identification. A sequential unique identifier would be predictable and less secure, making it unsuitable for this purpose.
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