What Is A MAC Address And How Do I Find It
What Is A MAC Address And How Do I Find It
The MAC (Media Access Control) address is a 12 digit unique code assigned to network devices. Think of it like a serial number, no two devices will have the same MAC address. The address is hard coded into the devices memory / firmware, it may also be on a sticker on the device.
MAC Address Format
MM:MM:MM:SS:SS:SS format.
Example MAC Address :
20-47-47-D4-A9-72
( 20-47-47 identifies the manufacturer as a Dell and the D4-A9-72 is the unique serial number )
The first 3 (MM) are the ID number of the manufacturer, which is assigned by an Internet standards body.
The second 3 (SS) are the serial number assigned by the manufacturer.
How To Find The MAC Address Of A Network Device
Remember the MAC address is unique to each network device. This will show you how to fine the network or WiFi MAC address.
Windows Operating System – Open a command prompt and type ipconfig /all this command will display the MAC address.
Unix and Linux – In the terminal, type ifconfig and press enter.
MacOS – Open “System Preferences”, then select “Network”.
iPhone – Click “Settings” then “General” then “About” and it will be shown here. It might be called “WiFi Address”
Android – Click “Menu” then “Settings” then select “About Tablet” or “About Phone”. If this does not show you might have a option called “Hardware Information” if so click this.
Other Device – The address is usually on a sticker, just like a serial number, or if the device has a settings section in the software it should be listed in there.
How To Find The Manufacturer From The MAC Address
There is a number of good websites that allow you to lookup a MAC address and it will tell you the vendor. If one does not work try the other’s as it depends what database lists they use.
http://www.coffer.com/mac_find/
https://www.wireshark.org/tools/oui-lookup.html
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.