How does Google calculate my location on a desktop?

Question

Right this is confusing me quite a bit, i\'m not sure if any of you have noticed or used the \"my location\" feature on google maps using your desktop (or none GPS/none mobi

Answer 1

I've finally worked it out. The biggest issue is how they managed to work out what Wireless networks were around me and how do they know where these networks are.

It "seems" to be something similar to this:

1. skyhookwireless.com [or similar] Company has mapped the location of many wireless access points, i assume by similar means that google streetview went around and picked up all the photos.
2. Using Google gears and my browser, we can report which wireless networks i see and have around me
3. Compare these wireless points to their geolocation and triangulate my position.

Reference: Slashdot