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MAC Addresses

A MAC address is a network device's hard-coded identification number. Because MAC addresses never change (unlike IP addresses, which are assigned by the network) they are used to register student’s computers. They are comprised of a 12-digit combination of 0-9 and A-F, with every two characters separated by a colon.

Windows XP


  • From the Start menu, select “Run” in the bottom-right corner.
  • At the prompt, type “cmd” and click OK.
  • A black window should then open. In here, type ipconfig –all, and press enter.
  • The MAC address is the Physical Address. Make sure you're looking at the one listed under Local Area Connection instead of wireless! – See an example see it

Windows Vista


  • Open the Start Menu and type "command" in the search field. Right-click on Command Prompt and select “Run as Administrator.“
  • If a security warning comes up, select Continue.
  • A black window should then open. In here, type ipconfig -all, and press enter.
  • The MAC address is the Physical Address. Make sure you're looking at the one listed under Local Area Connection instead of wireless! – See an example see it

Mac OS X


  • The easiest way to obtain the MAC address in OSX is via the Network Utility.
  • From the Applications folder, browse to “Utilities.” Network Utility should be in here.
  • The MAC address should be listed in the top-left corner under "Hardware Address."

Linux:


  • Open a terminal window and type ifconfig –a, then press enter.
  • The number corresponding to “HWaddr” is the MAC address.