# Set Tracking Mode

## What

Tracking Mode controls whether FileWave requests location information from a managed device. Location availability depends on the device platform, enrollment type, operating-system privacy controls, and user choices on the device, so results can vary.

## When/Why

Some organizations use tracking for ongoing device-location visibility, but the most common practical use is **Missing** mode for supervised iOS and iPadOS devices that have been misplaced. FileWave Missing mode uses Apple's Lost Mode functionality to lock the device and help locate it.

## How

From the device actions menu, choose **Set tracking mode**, then select one of these modes:

- **Untracked:** The default mode. FileWave does not request ongoing location data.
- **Tracked:** FileWave performs occasional location lookups when the platform and device settings allow it.
- **Missing:** FileWave places supported supervised Apple devices into Missing/Lost Mode.

![FileWave Anywhere device action menu showing Set tracking mode options: Tracked, Untracked, and Missing](https://kb.filewave.com/uploads/images/gallery/2023-07/czwh4kEozsxJa8fx-embedded-image-ss3awln2.png)

<p class="callout danger">Location data is treated as personally identifying information by operating systems and may require specific permissions, supervision, enrollment types, and end-user consent. Review [Location Tracking Setup](https://kb.filewave.com/books/filewave-client/page/location-tracking-setup) before relying on tracking for a workflow.</p>

When FileWave receives location data from the device, the device appears on the map in the **Location** tab of Device Detail.