MAC Address

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Introduction

A MAC (Media Access Control) Address is a unique 48-bit address that is hard coded into each Ethernet-based network adapter. While higher-level addressing techniques (such as IP Addresses) are more commonly known, the MAC Address is what is used at the lowest level to direct traffic on the local network. Translation between these addressing techniques are performed automatically so it is generally not necessary for users to concern themselves with this value.

Security

As MAC addresses uniquely identify a specific piece of hardware, some networking equipment can be configured to use them to keep unauthorized devices off of the network. By maintaining a list of network adapters allowed to access the network, routers and switches can refuse to function with any other devices.

Unfortunately, many network adapters allow users to manually override their hard-coded MAC Address so this only provides minimal security. While MAC filters won't protect you from advanced attackers, however, they can provide a deterant for less sophisticated ones.

See Also

• MAC Filter - Basic security feature offered in many routers, access points and switches.
• IP Address - High-level addressing technique used in more complex network configurations such as the Internet.