Presence Information Data Format Location Object (PIDF-LO)

This glossary was last updated on Jan. 23, 2024.

What is PIDF-LO?

PIDF-LO stands for Presence Information Data Format Location Object (PIDF-LO). It’s a flexible way to represent location information in a SIP header with XML schema. 

When an E911 call is placed, PIDF-LO takes location objects and sends them natively across the internet. This leads to instant, accurate location provisioning as a caller moves around a campus or high-rise environment.

The benefits of PIDF-LO 

By using a 911 routing technology built on PIDF-LO, businesses can send up-to-the-minute accurate location information to the correct PSAP.

This is an ideal emergency solution particularly for campus, high-rise, or highly mobile workers, as PIDF-LO will dynamically check for location information rather than a one-time static location of a traditional provisioning process.

Bandwidth’s 911 Dynamic Location Routing is built on PIDF-LO technology, providing 911 call takers with extremely accurate location information even before the call is answered. This allows emergency call takers to send help to where you are located, versus what city/state your phone may be registered in.

Terms related to PIDF-LO

• Public switched telephone network (PSTN)
• 911
• Dynamic location routing (DLR)
• Location SIP peer