beaconDB

beaconDB operates as a public domain wireless geolocation database, compiling extensive information on Wi-Fi networks, cell towers, and beacons globally. This resource is built on principles of ethical data sourcing, ensuring all contributions are opt-in. To safeguard user privacy, published information undergoes obfuscation, protecting both transmitters and contributors. The platform also implements abuse-resistant measures, requiring physical proximity to a beacon for updating existing data, which helps maintain data accuracy and integrity.

Users can contribute to the database using various mobile applications like WiGLE Wifi Wardriving, Tower Collector, and LocalGSM. These apps facilitate the submission of new coverage data, which is then aggregated and made available through the beaconDB API. The platform is designed for integration with different systems; for instance, it can be configured as an online location service in Android ROMs supporting microG, or used as a location backend for Linux distributions via Geoclue. Firefox browsers can also be set to directly query beaconDB for location services.

While currently experimental, beaconDB aims to provide a robust, community-driven geolocation service. It offers a fallback mechanism for location estimation, utilizing approximate cell tower data or IP-based estimates if Wi-Fi coverage is unavailable. Future plans include publishing obfuscated data dumps under a public domain license, further promoting open access to its comprehensive geospatial information.