Geofencing is the use of GPS or RFID technology to create a virtual geographic boundary, enabling software to trigger a response when a mobile device enters or leaves a particular area. The use of Geofence is called Geofencing.
It requires Location aware device of a location-based service (LBS) user entering or exiting a geo-fence. This activity could trigger an alert to the device’s user as well as messaging to the geo-fence operator. This info, which could contain the location of the device, could be sent to a mobile telephone or an email account.
The technology has many practical usages-
- Network logs can record geo-fence crossings to document the proper use of devices and their compliance with established policies.
- An ankle bracelet can alert authorities if an individual under house arrest leaves the premises.
- When the home owner’s Smartphone leaves the home’s geo-fenced perimeter, the thermostat lowers itself to a pre-defined temperature.
- A network administrator can set up alerts so when a hospital-owned iPad leaves the hospital grounds, the administrator can monitor the device’s location and lock it down to prevent it from being used.
- An employee’s smart card will send an alert to security if the employee attempts to enter an unauthorized, geo-fenced area.
- A sporting event can use geo-fencing to create a temporary no-fly zone that prevents drones from crossing a defined perimeter.
- Geo-fencing can alert a dispatcher when a truck driver breaks from his route.
- Small businesses can text an opt-in customer a coupon code when the customer’s Smartphone enters a defined geographical area.
- An ankle bracelet can alert authorities if an individual under house arrest leaves the premises.
- An airline app can define a Geofence around an airport when a flight reservation is near boarding time. When the device crosses the Geofence, the app can send a notification that takes users to an activity that allows them to get their boarding pass.
