> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.link11.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.link11.com/product-guides/secure-cdn/interface/geo-blocking.md).

# Geo Blocking

<figure><img src="/files/iFgi0xhS8QGzjuu28Zem" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Geo Blocking is the practice of preventing internet users from accessing a website or service based on their geographical location. In the case of CDN, this means preventing access on any content stored in the CDN network.&#x20;

It can be used to limit access to content for compliance or performance reasons, e.g. to block access to region-locked content.

Geo Blocking is typically accomplished by using the **IP address** of the user's device to determine their location, and blocking their access if they are located in a specific region or country.

{% hint style="info" %}
Link11's Geo Blocking depends on databases (discussed [below](#databases)) for Geo information. It is not a definitive Access Control method with 100% accuracy.
{% endhint %}

The interface shows the countries that are currently blocked:

<figure><img src="/files/rXjEXTEh4kAAzSgX7mOY" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Blocking countries

Individual countries can be added to the list:

<figure><img src="/files/THwIVKMnnf8jjRXwWzmt" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Selecting "List of all countries" will display the following:

<figure><img src="/files/D5l2sC0NjgVlvnjBZw4n" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Blocking all countries in a region

Blocking is performed on a per-country basis. However, Link11 provides the ability to block whole regions:

<figure><img src="/files/QcqT0W299ag9kD4MLkI2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

If a region is blocked, all the countries from that region will be added to the blocklist. They can be removed individually if desired.&#x20;

Removing a region from the blocklist will remove all countries from that region.

***

## **Databases**

There are three different formats in which Geo Data is received at Link11.

| Format | Explanation                                                                                                                                                                                  |
| ------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CSV    | Has defined values for IP ranges with countries. These are available for countries, cities and AS.                                                                                           |
| MMDB   | MaxMind Database Format                                                                                                                                                                      |
| DAT    | An older version of the MaxMind databases. These are no longer available from MaxMind directly, which is why we use a conversion script that translates up-to-date CSV files into DAT files. |

These databases are uploaded (every week) to a distribution server, and then get downloaded to all servers.