Prey allows to set up virtual perimeters (Geofences) and automate security actions whenever assigned devices enter or leave designated boundaries. This capability is essential for tracking hardware loans, enforcing regional compliance policies, or preventing critical endpoints from leaving approved facilities.
Best practices & technical requirements
To ensure accurate tracking and avoid false exit/entry alerts, review the following hardware and Operating System requirements before creating a Geofence:
OS-specific tracking methods
- Windows computers: Prey determines location on Windows endpoints using Wi-Fi triangulation. For Geofences to track Windows devices correctly, the device’s Wi-Fi adapter must be enabled (and ideally connected to a nearby network). Ensure the Location Services are enabled on Windows.
- Mobile devices & macOS: Prey relies directly on the operating system’s native Location Services. Ensure permissions are set to "Allow all the time" on Android (13+), "Always" on iOS, and that Location Services are active under macOS System Settings.
Accuracy breakdown & recommended radius guidelines
-
- Tracking method: Wi-Fi Triangulation
- Accuracy level: Medium to High
- Recommended minimum radius: 250–500 meters (~820–1,640 ft)
-
- Tracking method: Built-in Location Services
- Accuracy level: High
- Recommended minimum radius: 100–150 meters (~330–490 ft)
-
- Tracking method: Android & iOS GPS / Location Services
- Accuracy level: High
- Recommended minimum radius: 100–150 meters (~330–490 ft)
Note on ideal environments: Laptops and desktop computers that rely on Wi-Fi connections for location tracking operate best in urban environments with a high density of Wi-Fi networks. For rural areas, industrial parks, or locations with limited Wi-Fi infrastructure, consider using a significantly larger radius or Geographic Divisions to prevent inaccuracies.
How to set up a geofence
Log in to your Prey Panel and select Geofences from the left-hand navigation bar.
Define name, color, and geofence type:
Enter a descriptive name for your Geofence and assign a color code to help visually distinguish this perimeter on your map. Next, select your preferred boundary method:
-
Option A: Radius geofence
Set the center point by dragging the pin on the map or typing a specific address into the search bar. Adjust the coverage area using the radius slider.
Choose the primary target Country, then select the specific Subdivision (e.g., State, Province, or Region).
Click on the map to place your starting point and draw a custom perimeter. Add additional points as needed to outline your exact area. To complete the geofence, click the initial point to close the shape.
Location accuracy note: Location precision—particularly for laptops and desktops—depends heavily on surrounding Wi-Fi density. When configuring a Radius or Custom geofence for devices in rural or low-density network areas, select a significantly larger boundary area to prevent false exit alerts.
Configure action triggers:
Define the security action triggered when a device enters or exits the geofence:
- Notifications: Send email notifications to all account administrators.
- Automations: Trigger automated security actions, including Screen Lock, Remote Alarm, Alert Message, or Set as Missing.
Assign devices:
Select and move the target devices into the Selected Devices column.
Review and create geofence:
Click Continue to review the configuration summary, then click Create Geofence.
Avoid pairing Geofence triggers with high-impact security actions (like Screen Lock) in areas with unstable Wi-Fi. Temporary drops in location precision can cause false positives, accidentally locking an active employee out of their device.
Still need help?
If you need assistance, or if you have any more questions, please contact our Support team using the Help widget on your Prey panel.