Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology refers to a network of satellites providing signals from space that transmit positioning and timing data to GNSS receivers. These receivers then use this data to determine location. The most widely known GNSS is the United States' Global Positioning System (GPS), but other countries and regions have developed their own systems, such as Russia's GLONASS, the European Union's Galileo, and China's BeiDou.

GNSS technology functions by transmitting signals from satellites orbiting the Earth to GNSS receivers located on the Earth's surface. These receivers require signals from at least four satellites to accurately determine three-dimensional position (latitude, longitude, and altitude) and time. The system is based on a principle known as trilateration, which involves measuring the distance between the receiver and multiple satellites through the time it takes for the signals to reach the receiver.

Unlike other location technologies that require terrestrial landmarks or infrastructure, GNSS provides global coverage, offering positioning and timing information under all weather conditions anywhere on or near the Earth's surface.