In this guide, you’ll learn multiple methods to locate the MAC address on every major desktop operating system.
A MAC address, short for Media Access Control address, is a permanent identifier assigned to your computer’s network interface card (NIC) by the manufacturer. Unlike an IP address, which can change depending on your network, a MAC address usually remains the same for a particular network adapter.
A typical MAC address looks like this:
00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E
or
00-1A-2B-3C-4D-5E
Each network adapter has its own MAC address. For example, if your laptop has both WiFi and Ethernet, each adapter will have a separate hardware address.
You’ll commonly need your MAC address when connecting to secure business or campus networks, configuring a router, troubleshooting network issues, setting parental controls, or managing devices on your home network.
Fortunately, every operating system offers several easy ways to locate it.
Find the MAC Address of Your Computer (All OS)
To find the MAC address of your computer, open your operating system’s network settings or use a built-in command-line tool. On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi or Ethernet > Hardware properties. On macOS, go to System Settings > Network > Select your connection > Details > Hardware.
On Linux, open Terminal and use the ip link command. On ChromeOS, open Settings > Network and view your connected network details.
The MAC address appears as six pairs of letters and numbers separated by colons or hyphens.
Let’s learn in detail!
1: Find the MAC Address on Windows 11 and Windows 10
If you’re using Windows 11 or Windows 10, the easiest way to locate your MAC address is through the Settings app.
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Hardware properties if you’re connected through WiFi. If you’re using a wired connection, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet > Hardware properties instead.
Scroll down until you find the entry labeled Physical address (MAC). This value is your network adapter’s unique MAC address.
If your computer has multiple network adapters, such as WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, or virtual adapters created by virtualization software, you’ll notice multiple hardware addresses. Simply identify the adapter you’re currently using for your internet connection.
Another reliable option is using Command Prompt. Press Windows + S, type Command Prompt, and open it. Type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /all
Windows displays detailed information about every network adapter installed on your PC. Look for the adapter you’re using and locate the line labeled Physical Address. That value is your MAC address.
This method is especially helpful for users who prefer command-line tools or need detailed networking information.
2: Find the MAC Address on macOS
Apple makes it easy to locate your MAC address through System Settings.
Go to Apple menu > System Settings > Network.
Choose your active network connection from the left side. This could be WiFi or Ethernet.
Select Details, then open the Hardware section if available. You’ll see your computer’s MAC address, sometimes listed as the WiFi Address or Ethernet Address, depending on the type of connection.
You can also use the Terminal application.
Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
For WiFi, type:
ifconfig en0
For Ethernet, type:
ifconfig en1
Press Enter, then locate the line labeled ether. The value displayed next to it is your MAC address.
If you’re unsure whether your Mac uses en0 or en1, entering the ifconfig command without additional options lists every network interface on your computer.
3: Find the MAC Address on Linux
Most Linux distributions offer both graphical and terminal-based methods for finding the MAC address.
If you’re using a desktop environment like GNOME or KDE Plasma, go to Settings > Network.
Choose your active network connection, then open its details page. The MAC address is typically displayed under Hardware Address, Device Address, or MAC Address.
Many Linux users prefer the terminal because it’s quick and works on almost every distribution.
Open Terminal.
Type:
ip link
Press Enter.
You’ll see every network interface installed on your system. Locate your active adapter, usually named wlan0, wlp, eth0, or enp, depending on your Linux distribution.
The value shown next to link/ether is the adapter’s MAC address.
You can also use:
ifconfig
on systems where that command is installed.
Since Linux distributions vary slightly, menu names may differ, but the MAC address is always available in the network configuration.
4: Find the MAC Address on ChromeOS
If you’re using a Chromebook, finding the MAC address is very straightforward.
Go to Settings > Network.
Select the network you’re currently connected to.
Open the connection details.
You’ll find information including your IP address, network status, and your device’s MAC address.
Some Chromebook models also display separate WiFi and Bluetooth MAC addresses, depending on the hardware configuration.
This information is especially useful when your school, workplace, or internet provider asks you to register your Chromebook before connecting to the network.
Verify That You’re Viewing the Correct MAC Address
Modern computers often include multiple network adapters. As a result, you’ll likely see several different MAC addresses.
For example, your laptop may have one for WiFi, another for Ethernet, another for Bluetooth, and additional virtual adapters created by software such as virtualization platforms or VPN applications.
To avoid confusion, make sure you’re checking the adapter currently connected to your network.
If you’re connected wirelessly, use the WiFi MAC address.
If you’re using a network cable, use the Ethernet MAC address.
You should also know that some modern operating systems support randomized or private MAC addresses for wireless connections.
This privacy feature changes the address used on certain WiFi networks to make device tracking more difficult.
If you notice that your router shows a different wireless address than your computer’s permanent hardware address, this feature may be enabled.
FAQs
What is a MAC address?
A MAC address is a unique hardware identifier assigned to a computer’s network adapter. It allows devices to communicate correctly on a local network.
Is a MAC address the same as an IP address?
No. A MAC address identifies the physical network adapter, while an IP address identifies the device’s current location on a network. An IP address can change, but a MAC address generally remains the same.
Can my computer have more than one MAC address?
Yes. Every network adapter has its own MAC address. A laptop with both WiFi and Ethernet will have at least two different MAC addresses.
Can I change my MAC address?
Some operating systems allow you to temporarily change or randomize your MAC address through software settings or network adapter options. However, the original hardware address assigned by the manufacturer remains associated with the adapter.
Why does my router show a different MAC address?
This often happens because your device uses a private or randomized MAC address to enhance privacy on wireless networks.
Sharing your MAC address is generally less sensitive than sharing passwords or personal information. However, it’s still a good idea to provide it only when necessary, such as to your network administrator or internet service provider.
Summary
Finding your computer’s MAC address is a simple task once you know where to look. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, Linux, or ChromeOS, you can locate this unique hardware identifier through your operating system’s network settings or by using a built-in command-line utility.
Understanding your MAC address can help you configure routers, troubleshoot connectivity issues, register devices on secure networks, and manage your home or office network more effectively.
By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to quickly identify the correct MAC address for your active network connection whenever you need it.