GPS and GPS-related devices play a crucial role in our everyday lives. A common example is our smartphones, which we rely on for navigation. While most of us are familiar with the term GPS, many do not fully grasp how it operates. There are several misconceptions surrounding this topic. In this article, we will clarify what GPS and GPS trackers are and explore whether these devices need an internet connection to operate.
What is GPS?
GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a network of satellites that work together to identify the location of any object on Earth through GPS receivers. This service is available for free, allowing anyone to utilize satellite signals to find their position on a map. As stated on the government website, GPS comprises three main segments:
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Space segment: Consists of a network of 24 satellites that send out one-way GPS signals.
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Control segment: Oversees and manages these satellites.
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User segment: Receives signals from the satellites using GPS receivers to determine the user's location.
Does GPS Require the Internet to Work?
GPS does not need an internet connection to function. It operates by receiving signals from satellites, which can be accessed by anyone with a GPS receiver. You can easily verify this by turning off your phone's internet and still using Google Maps for directions.
Can a GPS Tracker Device Work Without the Internet?
Before we dive into the answer, it's essential to grasp what GPS tracker devices do. These compact devices can be attached to vehicles for real-time tracking. They connect with a tracking application, allowing users to keep an eye on the vehicle's location from home while it’s on the move.
To send the vehicle’s location data to the user’s mobile device, an internet connection is required. Here’s a simple explanation of how it operates:
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On a mobile phone: The GPS receiver comes built-in, allowing it to access location information directly without requiring an internet connection.
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On a GPS tracker: This device must transmit location data to the user's phone or computer. Because the GPS receiver only gathers location data, the GPS tracker and the user's device must be connected through the internet.
Questions:
My phone can access GPS without internet, so why can’t the GPS tracker also work without it?
Both phones and GPS devices can access location data for free, as mentioned earlier. However, the GPS tracker requires an internet connection to transmit the location data from the remote vehicle to the user's device. The GPS receiver in the tracker gathers location data, but the tracker needs to use cellular networks (via a SIM card) or Wi-Fi to transmit that information to the user’s phone or app.
Does the car or vehicle need an active internet connection or hotspot for the GPS tracker to send data to the phone?
The GPS tracker from Letstrack is equipped with a pre-installed M2M SIM card that automatically connects to the best-performing network available in any location. This guarantees that the tracker maintains optimal internet connectivity without needing any external support, so there’s no need for the vehicle to have its own active internet connection or hotspot.
Does the application for GPS tracking always need to be running to receive alerts and store data?
The Letstrack tracking application saves location data on a cloud server, meaning you don't have to keep the mobile or desktop app open all the time to get alerts or store data. The app works in the background, ensuring that you continue to receive real-time location updates, alerts, and notifications, even when the app isn't actively running.
Chinese Brands in the Market and Government Action:
There are many GPS tracking devices on the market, with a significant number coming from Chinese companies that provide budget-friendly options. However, the Indian government has recently moved to restrict the use of these inexpensive Chinese brands and their related apps, citing security and privacy concerns. These devices and applications frequently exhibit vulnerabilities that can jeopardize user safety and data integrity.
Letstrack: A Reliable Option Made in India
Given these concerns, Letstrack, a GPS tracker made in India, emerges as a trustworthy choice for those in search of secure and efficient tracking devices. With strong security features, a durable design, and smooth connectivity, Letstrack delivers a reliable solution for vehicle tracking and personal safety. By opting for Letstrack, you are supporting a local brand that emphasizes user safety and data protection, while steering clear of the potential risks linked to Chinese-made products and applications.
In summary, although GPS trackers need internet connectivity to send data, they do not depend on an internet connection for their essential functions. Letstrack presents an excellent alternative to foreign-made devices, making it the perfect option for users looking for a secure and high-quality GPS tracking solution.
