In February 2025, we finalised a major enhancement to the OdataLink Firewall. We are pleased to announce the addition of geo-based IP addresses.
What are Geo-Based IP Addresses?
For those whose ISPs reassign their IP addresses frequently, OdataLink now provides a Geo-based mechanism. Using this mechanism, you can configure the OdataLink firewall to authorise the ASN (or ISP) along with a specific geographical region (e.g. city, state or country). This is particularly useful for Countries whose internet infrastructure is more mobile.
How does this geo-based mechanism differ from ip-based mechanism?
The traditional IP-based mechanism relied on authorising a fixed single or range of IP addresses in the firewall.
This approach worked well for those working from fixed locations. Unfortunately, it proved particularly awkward to manage for those with dynamic IPs or using mobile or cell infrastructure.
The new geo-based mechanism allows you to authorise the “owner” of the IP address along with the region where it is assigned.
In other words, you can authorise access for a whole range of IP addresses. You can choose whether you want to authorise the ISP (e.g. Telstra, Vodafone, etc.) and region (e.g. the city of Melbourne, the state of Victoria or all of Australia). By making a single choice, you no longer need to constantly update the firewall whenever your actual IP address changes.
This mechanism is entirely optional. Administrators can choose to make use of it or not as it may not suit all environment or risk profiles.
Learn about the OdataLink Firewall
For a complete overview of the OdataLink Firewall, check out the video below.