A geofence is a virtual geographic boundary or perimeter set around a real- world location, created using GPS, RFID, Wi-Fi, or cellular data technology. It acts like a digital fence that can detect when a device or object enters, exits, or moves within this defined area, triggering alerts or actions based on this movement.
Definition and Function
A geofence can be dynamically generated, such as a radius around a specific point, or predefined with specific boundaries like school zones or commercial areas. When a location-aware device crosses this virtual boundary, it can send notifications or trigger automated actions such as alerts to users or system operators.
Common Uses
Geofencing is widely used across various sectors:
- Fleet management, to track vehicle locations and unauthorized use
- Marketing, to send location-based promotions or notifications
- Security, to monitor access to restricted areas
- Smart home automation and public transport alerts.
How It Works
Geofences are typically created through mapping software by drawing boundaries in shapes such as circles or polygons. Devices equipped with GPS or other location services are monitored continuously, and triggers are set for events like entering or leaving the geofenced area. These triggers can result in notifications via text, email, or app alerts and can automate workflows, such as logging attendance or adjusting marketing campaigns.
Thus, a geofence enables real-time location awareness and control connected to physical geographic zones without a physical fence.
