A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a unique identifier assigned to every active network device that has a Network Interface Card (NIC). It is 12 characters long consisting of digits (0-9) and letters (A-F). It can be represented in different notations depending on the manufacturer of the device. Wireless access points often use MAC addresses for access control. The access points will only allow access for known devices (MAC addresses are unique).
Some examples of MAC address formats are shown below:
All devices that can connect to the internet will have a MAC address. Therefore, a MAC address is a vital piece of information when troubleshooting a network issue. A MAC address usually can be found in the settings of a device.
1. In the search bar on a Windows computer, type CMD or Command Prompt. Next, click on the Command Prompt application. (An alternative shortcut is to press the Windows key + R, type CMD, and hit enter.)
2. Once you click on that application, it will bring up a black box. This is the Command Prompt. You will see a flashing line in the black box, and this is where you can type out your command to get the results you need to obtain the MAC address. To locate a wired MAC address, type getmac, which is the command to find a MAC address. Hit Enter.
3. The wired MAC address will be the one listed next to Device.
4. An alternative way to find the MAC address is to type ipconfig /all into the Command Prompt and hit Enter. The wired MAC address will be listed under network Ethernet adapter Ethernet next to Physical Address. The wireless MAC address will be listed under Wireless LAN adapter WiFi next to Physical Address.
Recent macOS (System Settings):
1. On a MAC computer, select Apple menu > System Settings > Network.
2. Select the specific network connection you are using (i.e. WiFi network or Ethernet), and select Details next to that network.
3. Select the Hardware tab, and you will see the MAC address.
Older macOS (System Preferences):
1. On a MAC computer, select Apple menu > System Preferences > Network (under Internet and Wireless).
2. Select the specific network connection you are using (i.e. WiFi network or Ethernet).
3. Select the Advanced button. Go to the Hardware tab (for Ethernet) or the WiFi tab (for WiFi), and you will see the MAC address.
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap About.
4. The WiFi address is your MAC address.
Note: the instructions may vary depending on the Android version and phone mode. Check your phone manufacturer's website for support information.
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap About Phone or About Device. This option might be under System on some devices.
3. Tap on Status or Hardware Information.
4. The WiFi address is your MAC address.
Should you need assistance locating the MAC address on your device or if you are experiencing network or wireless connectivity issues on campus, contact the IT Service Desk at (334) 844-4944 or itservicedesk@auburn.edu.