Geolocation Addon

Geolocation vs Geofencing - What's the difference?

Our optional "Geolocation" addon for MIDAS room booking systems adds both geolocation and geofencing capabilities to your scheduling software.

Whilst the two terms are related, they serve distinct purposes. Let's clarify the difference between geolocation vs. geofencing, explore their functionalities, applications, and how they relate to our optional addon.

What is Geolocation? Pinpointing Location on a Map

Geolocation focuses on identifying the precise real-world geographic location of a device or user. It can leverage various technologies, including:

• GPS (Global Positioning System): Satellite-based navigation providing highly accurate location data.
• Wi-Fi: Identifying nearby Wi-Fi networks to estimate location.
• Cellular Data: Using cell tower triangulation to approximate location.
• IP Address: Determining a general geographic area based on the device's internet protocol address.

Geolocation's primary function is to provide accurate location information. This data powers various applications, such as:

• Navigation and Mapping: Guiding users with turn-by-turn directions and displaying points of interest.
• Location-Based Services (LBS): Enabling services like finding nearby restaurants, shops, or ATMs.
• Emergency Services: Locating individuals in distress for faster response times.
• Social Media Check-ins: Allowing users to share their current location with their network.

In MIDAS, our geolocation addon uses geolocation to show geographic locations for IP addresses listed in the Recent Activity Log, and to include geographic location information in new/unfamiliar login activity email notifications.

What is Geofencing? Creating Virtual Boundaries

Geofencing takes location a step further by establishing virtual perimeters around specific geographic areas. These "geofences" can act as triggers for actions when a device or user enters or exits the defined zone, or can be used to deny access to services when a device or user it outside of a defined area. Geofencing relies on the same location technologies as geolocation (GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular data) to determine if a device is within the virtual boundary.

The typical function of geofencing is to trigger pre-programmed actions. Common applications include:

• Location-Based Marketing: Sending targeted promotions or offers to customers when they enter a store's vicinity.
• Security and Monitoring: Alerting authorities or designated personnel when someone enters a restricted area.
• Time Tracking: Automating employee clock-in/clock-out based on their presence at a work site.
• Home Automation: Triggering smart home devices (lights, thermostats) based on arrival or departure.

In MIDAS, our geolocation addon uses geofencing to allow you to restrict logins to users within certain countries, or to restrict logins to users within a certain radius around your site's location.

Key Takeaway: Location Awareness vs. Location Action

The fundamental difference between geolocation vs. geofencing lies in their purpose. Geolocation provides the "where," while geofencing uses the "where" to initiate an action. Geolocation is about knowing a location; geofencing is about reacting to a location.