Web hosting provider GoDaddy is inserting JavaScript code into websites, which could degrade performance or disrupt sites altogether. A snippet of JavaScript code is being added to sites to utilize a technology known as Real User Metrics (RUM). All of GoDaddy’s US customers are automatically enrolled in using RUM, allowing the hosting provider to measure and monitor the performance of websites.
GoDaddy isn’t particularly transparent about informing customers about RUM, although it does offer a help document. Data collected by RUM aims to enhance GoDaddy’s systems and server configurations. However, it provides no tangible benefit to site owners and is more likely to have adverse effects.
GoDaddy’s documentation states that most customers won’t face issues when opted into RUM, but the JavaScript used may cause problems, including slower site performance or a malfunctioning website. If you’re using Google’s AMP, have pages with multiple closing tags, or notice slower site performance, opting out of RUM is advisable.
Opting out of RUM is highly recommended, as unnecessary JavaScript can increase a website’s loading time. This could ultimately affect search rankings, as loading time is a known ranking factor.
If GoDaddy is your hosting provider, here’s how to opt out:
– Access your cPanel hosting account by logging in to your cPanel and clicking on your hosting account.
– Click the three-dot menu button, then click “Help us.”
– Click “Opt out.”
The JavaScript snippet is immediately removed after opting out.
