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A MAC address is a 12-digit hexadecimal code that looks something like this: 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E. Sometimes referred to as a hardware or physical address, it is a unique attribute that is used to identify individual electronic devices on a network. Manufacturers assign this address to network adapters. In most cases, it’s meant to remain unchanged. This MAC address ensures that internet traffic is directed specifically to the correct device, whether it’s a router, PC, or laptop, depending on the user’s internet plan.
Check out this article if you’re wondering where to locate your MAC address. Within this guide, we’ll look at different methods to change it.
MAC Spoofing: Reasons to Consider
If a public Wi-Fi network limits free access to one hour per device, you won’t be able to reconnect after your time is up. However, by changing or “spoofing” your MAC address, your device shows up as a new one, letting you rejoin and continue using the internet. This is known as MAC address spoofing.
People have different reasons for doing this. While using public Wi-Fi, changing your MAC address can be a useful step. In this case, you can reduce the chances of being tracked. Another situation is when you’re on a university network that blocks non-registered devices by their MAC address. You may need specific content and the process may seem troublesome at first, but spoofing your address can make it possible to connect.
In an IT environment, modifying MAC addresses is common for network testing and security. This process simplifies tasks such as traffic analysis, device spoofing, and debugging network issues for engineers.
Next, if you’re running multiple seller accounts on eBay or other sites, the platform may track your MAC address to prevent multiple accounts from being linked to the same device. So it may come in handy to change both your MAC and IP address. It will show that each account remains separate. It’s a way to handle several accounts without raising suspicion from anti-fraud systems.
From a security standpoint, binding internet access to a user’s MAC address prevents unauthorized access via their cable. For example, if someone plugs the client’s cable into a different device, internet access will be blocked due to a MAC address conflict.
When Do You Need to Change Your MAC Address?
- When replacing an old router (Wi-Fi router) with a new one.
- When switching from an old PC to a new one. If your internet cable was previously connected to an older computer, you may need to update the MAC address of the new network card to match the old one.
- After reinstalling the operating system.
- When filtering MAC addresses in your router settings to restrict or allow certain devices access to the internet.
Can I change MAC safely?
First, most users don’t need to change their MAC address. If they decide to spoof it, they must be aware of the potential consequences. For example, doing this incorrectly may cause connectivity issues. However, if you have a valid reason and know what you’re doing, it may be beneficial. It can be good for privacy and security, as mentioned earlier.
*Make sure to frequently review the rules and terms of service of specific networks or services.
Some networks use MAC address filtering to allow only approved devices to connect. This means that the network will check the MAC address of each device trying to establish the connection, and only those with pre-approved addresses are granted access.
However, in certain cases, people may want to bypass this type of filtering. Antidetect browsers combined with proxies can help with that. These surfers mask the real MAC address of a device so users can access restricted networks. When you use a proxy to visit a website, the proxy server makes the request for you, gets the data, and sends it back to you. This can be used alongside MAC address spoofing to further hide your device’s identity. Try to opt for reliable proxy providers and avoid free proxies which can lead to serious troubles.
Antidetect browsers also include features for changing not only the MAC address but also other device identifiers such as IP addresses, browser fingerprints, and more.
Without permission, you can violate network policies or terms of service. Therefore, it’s best to use them responsibly and for legitimate reasons.
How to Change MAC Address on Any Device
macOS
On macOS, users usually modify their MAC address through network settings or by downloading third-party applications. Let’s see how it changes via network settings:
The first step is to open the Terminal. Go to Applications → Utilities → Terminal or use Spotlight search. In Terminal, type the following command and press Enter:
ifconfig en0 | grep ether
*If you are using Wi-Fi, it’s recommended to disconnect it first to avoid issues while changing the MAC address. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the top right corner and turn it off.
Next, to change the MAC address, enter this command:
sudo ifconfig en0 ether xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx
You should replace xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx with the new MAC address you want to use.
Once you’ve changed the MAC address, reconnect to Wi-Fi. To verify the new MAC address, run the same command we used at the beginning:
ifconfig en0 | grep ether
It should display the new MAC address. After restarting your computer, the change will no longer be in effect. If you want to make it permanent, you need to set it up to change automatically when your computer starts using additional scripts or system modifications.
Windows
For Windows users, the process is a bit different:
You should open Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting Device Manager from the list. After that, look for Network Adapters. Right-click on your active network adapter and choose Properties. In the Properties window, go to the Advanced tab. Select Network Address or Locally Administered Address.
On the right side, there will be a field for the Value. Enter the new MAC address in the Value box. It must be a 12-digit MAC address and look like 00AABBCCDDEE. Click OK, and restart your connection. It is also recommended to restart your Network Adapter. To check if the MAC address changed, open Command Prompt and type:
ipconfig /all
Look for the Physical Address under your network adapter to see the new MAC address.
Linux
If you work with Linux, open Terminal and find your MAC by typing this command:
ip link show eth0
Change MAC by replacing xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx.
sudo ifconfig eth0 down
sudo ifconfig eth0 hw ether XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX
sudo ifconfig eth0 up
*To make it permanent, edit /etc/network/interfaces.
iOS
In fact, Apple does not allow manual MAC address changes. However, you can try the Private MAC Address feature that randomizes MAC per Wi-Fi. Try these quick steps:
Settings → Wi-Fi → Tap your network → Use Private Address (toggle ON).
Android
For Android, follow these directions:
Settings → Wi-Fi → Tap Network → Use Randomized MAC.
Mission accomplished. If you want to change your MAC address and further improve your privacy, choose high-quality proxies with a flexible payment model and 24/7 human support. For more information, contact our team.
