How can I see the MAC of my PC

La MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to each network card in your devices, whether it is a computer, mobile, router or any other device connected to the network. Knowing the MAC of your devices can be very useful when it comes to identify them in the list of devices connected to your network.

In this article, we will explain what exactly a MAC address is and how you can figure out that of your devices in different operating systems. This way, you can easily recognize your devices when you check who is connected to your network.

What is a MAC address?

The MAC address, whose acronym comes from English Media Access Control, it's a unique identifier 48 bits that the manufacturer assigns to each network card. These 48 bits are normally represented by 12 hexadecimal digits, grouped in six pairs separated by colons, dashes or without separation. An example would be: 00:1e:c2:9e:28:6b.

It is important to keep in mind that the first three pairs of digits identify the manufacturer, while the last three correspond to the model device specific. There are specialized search engines that allow you to find out the manufacturer from the first six digits of a MAC.

Being unique identifiers, MAC addresses can be used by network administrators to allow or deny access of certain devices. Although in theory they are fixed, there are ways to modify them if you want to make them more recognizable on your network or avoid blockages.

Please note that when connecting to a router, your mobile or computer will automatically send its MAC. Therefore, it is crucial to always know which networks you connect to and who owns them.

How to locate the MAC address in Windows

1. Press the keys Windows + R to open the Run window.
2. Writes cmd and press Enter to access the Command Prompt.
3. Enter the command ipconfig /all.
4. Look for the entrance Physical address, where you will find the MAC of your computer.

How to know the MAC address on macOS

1. Open the System Preferences.
2. Click on Grid and select the network you are connected to in the left panel.
3. Press the button Advanced at the bottom of the window.
4. Go to the tab Hardware, where you will see your MAC address.

Steps to obtain the MAC address in GNU/Linux

1. Open the console of the system.
2. Type the command ifconfig.
3. The MAC will appear in the field HWaddr.

Find the MAC address on Android

1. Enter Configuration.
2. Click on Wi-Fi and choose the option Advanced settings.
3. La MAC address will be displayed at the bottom of the screen.

Way to locate the MAC address on iOS

1. Access Settings.
2. Click on General and select the option Information.
3. In the field Wi-Fi Address you will find your MAC.

To know the MAC address of your devices will allow you identify them easily when you check which computers are connected to your network. Additionally, this information can be useful if you need to configure a MAC filtering on your router to control network access.

The MAC address is a unique identifier and should not be shared lightly, as it could be used by third parties to track your online activities or even for supplant your identity on the network.

Now that you know how to find the MAC of your devices, you will be able to have greater control over your network and ensure that only authorized computers have access to it. Always keep your devices protected and monitor who connects to your network to ensure your security y privacy online.