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How accurate is IP geolocation?

IP geolocation estimates the region associated with a network address. It is not GPS or a home address. Read the source, update date, precision and agreement between sources alongside the location.

By IPZOR · Reviewed

What does a map pin represent?

Coordinates commonly represent an area returned by a database. MaxMind states that its geolocation cannot identify a person, household or street address; an accuracy radius expresses uncertainty. Read IPZOR map positions with their precision labels. A representative country point does not establish where a connection physically originated.

Why do websites show different regions?

Database versions, address reassignment, mobile network exits and proxy exits can affect the result. An organization's registration region is also a different field from an IP's observed location. When sources disagree, compare dates and definitions. A more specific city name is not automatically more reliable.

How can I investigate a mismatch?

First check that both results refer to the same IPv4 or IPv6 address. Check whether a VPN, proxy or mobile network is active. Keep source names and observation times when sending a correction to the relevant database. A location lookup does not prove access to region-specific content or someone's physical location.

Sources & further reading