A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface controller (NIC) for use as a network address in communications within a network segment. It is a 48-bit address typically represented as six pairs of hexadecimal digits (e.g., 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E).
MAC addresses are used to identify devices on a local network (like Ethernet or Wi-Fi). They ensure that data packets are delivered to the correct hardware device within a network.
No. A MAC address is a hardware identifier tied to a device's network interface, while an IP address is a logical identifier assigned to a device for communication over a network. MAC addresses operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, while IP addresses operate at the network layer (Layer 3).
Yes, MAC addresses can be changed or "spoofed" using software tools, but this is typically done for specific purposes like privacy or network troubleshooting. The original MAC address is hardcoded into the hardware by the manufacturer.
Yes, MAC addresses are designed to be globally unique. The first half of the address (the OUI, or Organizationally Unique Identifier) is assigned to the manufacturer, and the second half is assigned by the manufacturer to the device.
ipconfig /allifconfig or ip link showThe MAC address is hardcoded into the device's hardware but can be temporarily changed through software. This change is not permanent and will revert after a reboot.
No. MAC addresses are only used for communication within a local network. Once data leaves the local network, IP addresses are used for routing.