> 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/web-ddos/interface/geo-blocking.md).

# Geo Blocking

{% hint style="danger" %}
Users will have to choose an algorithm in the [WebDDoS Instance/DDoS Mitigation settings](/product-guides/web-ddos/interface/instances/ddos-mitigation.md#geo-ip-blocking-algorithm).
{% endhint %}

Geo Blocking refers to the practice of preventing Internet users from accessing a website or service based on their geographical location. This is typically accomplished by using the **IP address** of the user's device to determine their location, and blocking access if they are located in a specific region or country.

This can be used as a mitigation strategy, reducing the overall impact of an attack coming from a specific region or country. Alternatively, Geo Blocking can be used to limit access to websites for compliance or performance reasons.

## Blocked Countries Map

<figure><img src="/files/DBE57cResgPVkGqeG15A" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The map shows which countries are currently blocked.

## Blocked Countries

This is a list of countries that are currently blocked, with a button for each to unblock and remove it from the list.

<figure><img src="/files/Wu9DFRmqcS32aOo38o6E" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Add Countries to Blocklist

This provides the ability to block traffic from specific countries.

<figure><img src="/files/rZBPsuXe9umLzMVUnXEQ" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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

<figure><img src="/files/cdgjr5RtfofOztRck896" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Add Region to Blocklist

This provides the ability to add all countries in a specific region to the blocklist.

If a region is blocked, all the countries from that region will be added to the blocklist and can be removed individually. Removing a region from the blocklist will remove all countries from that region.

<figure><img src="/files/1qY0hR9QBCnkCFCeVkh2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

## **Databases**

Geo Blocking at Link11 is part of the firewall, and it depends on databases of geographic information. It is not a definitive, 100% accurate method of access control.

Link11 uses the industry leading geo-location databases by MaxMind.

Databases are updated weekly.