what is *Identified ID?*

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An Identified ID in Mixpanel is a unique identifier used to track a known user's activity across devices and sessions. It's typically set when a user logs in or signs up, allowing you to associate events and user profile data with a specific individual. Here are key points about Identified ID:

1. It's set using the identify() method in Mixpanel SDKs when you know the user's true identity, usually after login or signup Docs Tracking-methods > Sdks > Mixpanel SDKs: Javascript > Managing User Identity> .

2. In server-side implementations, it's referred to as $identified_id and is used to merge with an anonymous ID ($anon_id) when sending an $identify event Docs Tracking-methods > Id-management > Identifying Users (Original) > Server-side Identity Management> .

3. The Identified ID becomes the new distinct_id for the user, replacing any previously used anonymous ID Docs Tracking-methods > Id-management > Identifying Users (Simplified) > Server-side Identity Management > Step 3 - Set the Authenticated ID once users log in> .

4. It allows Mixpanel to connect a user's pre-login (anonymous) and post-login behavior, providing a complete view of the user's interactions with your product.

5. User profiles in Mixpanel are set directly on the distinct_id, which becomes the Identified ID after calling identify() Docs Tracking-methods > Id-management > Identifying Users (Original) > FAQ Part 2> .

By using Identified IDs, you can accurately track and analyze user behavior across multiple sessions and devices, providing a more comprehensive understanding of your users' interactions with your product.

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