Using Matomo with WordPress

Matomo (formerly Piwik) is an open‑source analytics platform that provides detailed visitor statistics for your website. On ruachost.com, you can integrate Matomo with WordPress either by using a plugin or by editing your theme directly.

Why Use Matomo?

• Full control over your analytics data (self‑hosted).
• GDPR‑compliant and privacy‑focused.
• Provides detailed visitor insights (traffic sources, search terms, conversions).
• Alternative to Google Analytics with no data sharing.

Method 1: Use a WordPress Plugin (Recommended)

1. Install Matomo on your hosting account (via Softaculous or manual installation).
2. Log in to WordPress as administrator.
3. Go to Plugins → Add New.
4. Search for WP‑Matomo (WP‑Piwik).
5. Click Install Now, then Activate.
6. Go to Settings → WP‑Piwik.
7. Enter your Matomo URL (e.g., https://yourdomain.com/matomo).
8. Enter your Auth Token (generated in Matomo under Administration → Personal → Security).
9. Save changes → WordPress will now connect to Matomo.
10. Enable tracking under Enable Tracking tab → Select Default tracking.

✅ You can now view visitor statistics directly in the WordPress dashboard.

Method 2: Edit the Theme Directly

1. Log in to your Matomo account.
2. Go to Administration → Websites → Tracking Code.
3. Copy the full JavaScript tracking code.
4. Log in to WordPress as administrator.
5. Go to Appearance → Theme Editor → footer.php.
6. Paste the tracking code just above the closing </body> tag.
7. Save changes.

✅ Matomo will now track all pages on your WordPress site.

Important Notes

• Editing the theme directly may cause changes to be lost during theme updates. Use a child theme to avoid this.
• Plugins are easier to manage and update, but may add slight overhead.
• Always test tracking after setup to confirm data is being collected.