Alternatively, they could whitelist only certain MAC addresses-this is a common access control method known as MAC address filtering. Which security mechanism would they use? A quick way to do that would be to block that device's MAC address. Let's say a network administrator wants to block a certain device from accessing a network. Precisely because MAC addresses are essentially burned-in, they play a role in securing a network. For example, if your laptop has both built-in Wi-Fi and an Ethernet port, it has two MAC addresses. Still, a device can have more than one MAC address. Rather, they are assigned by manufacturers themselves. These addresses don't change on their own, like an IP might. Your computer or smartphone would not be able to function properly or connect to a network without a MAC address.

MAC addresses are sort of like ID numbers for computers, smartphones, routers, and so on. So, a typical MAC address would look something like this: 18-3B-5D-03-8A-40. If you do not see your operating system listed, refer to your device’s user manual or product support website.Every device that connects to the internet has a Media Access Control (MAC) address, which usually consists of six sets of two characters. 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. Apple iPhone - View MAC Address From a Home screen on your Apple iPhone, navigate: Settings Settings icon. 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).

What is a mac address for wifi