MAC address
The MAC address, or Media Access Control address, (sometimes Physical address) is a unique identifier assigned to network adapters and network interface cards (NICs) by the manufacturer of the hardware. This address can be queried by users on the network the card is connected to. It is a permanent assignment to the network card, unlike an IP address which is assigned on a per-connection basis.
Windows
On Windows, you may query your own MAC addresses by running cmd and typing ipconfig /all. It will be a string of 6 2-digit hex numbers under each network device. Alternately, navigate to network connections> your device name >Status>Support>Details.
Linux
ifconfig -a typically works. Otherwise, shout loudly into the built-in mic until it succumbs to your will.
Macintosh
Use ifconfig in the terminal window. It should be the only hex address under en0. Alternately, go to Apple>About This Mac>Network>your device name>and look under Ethernet: MAC Address
IOS:
Select Settings > General > About.
A Wi-Fi Address displays. This is your device’s MAC address.
Android:
In most cases, you can follow this procedure to locate your MAC address:
Select Settings > About Device > Status.
A WiFi Address or WiFi MAC Address displays. This is your device’s MAC address.
If this does not work, refer to your device’s user manual.
![]() | It should be known that it is possible to change the appearance of the MAC address of a network device through MAC Spoofing
The IEEE, which distributes addresses to manufacturers, also has built in addresses to interact with multiple NICs at once:
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1 Comment
comments.show.hideFeb 04, 2009
Jeff Chen
Thanks Jeff! This article saved my life! Twice!