

If you buy a new modem and try plugging it in, it will not work. These devices have a preset MAC address, and it is registered with your cable company. An IP address can also be set to “dynamic,” so it will change at set intervals.Ī common use of a MAC address that you may be aware of is a cable modem. This is in part due to the fact that the MAC address is pre-programmed into a device versus being assigned like an IP Address. Therefore, an IP address is referred to as a logical address, while a MAC address is known as a physical address.

While a MAC address is used for local identification, an IP address helps the device communicate globally. If a device such as a computer accepts both wired and wireless connections, it will have a different MAC address for each. This number is used by both wired and wireless devices. It is designed to be a permanent network identifier for a device. What makes a MAC address unique is that it doesn’t change. A MAC address is required for nearly all network security protocols. The ability to distinguish a device on a network isn’t only important it is also to maintaining network security.

If you do not see your operating system listed, refer to your device’s user manual or product support website.A MAC address is a major part of computer networking. If this does not work, refer to your device’s user manual. In most cases, you can follow this procedure to locate your MAC address:Ī WiFi Address or WiFi MAC Address displays. This is your device’s MAC address.Ī Wi-Fi Address displays. Select Apple Icon > System Preferences > Network > Advanced.Ī WiFi Address or Airport Address displays.This is your computer’s Ethernet MAC address. Under Ethernet adapter Wireless Network Connection, a Physical Address displays. In the command prompt, type ipconfig /all.The physical address is your device’s MAC address.

Click Windows Start or press the Windows key.Ī physical address displays for each adapter.You can block or allow service to a specific device if you know its MAC address. If your computer has multiple network adapters (for example, an Ethernet adapter and a wireless adapter), each adapter has its own MAC address. Follow the steps for the operating system that you use.Įxample of a MAC address: 00:00:00:a1:2b:ccĮvery device connected to your home network has a unique MAC address. Follow these instructions to find your computer or mobile device’s media access control address (MAC address).
