When scanning a network, you can see IP addresses and MAC addresses of devices on that network. A primary rule is to never duplicate IP addresses to avoid creating conflicts. The same is true for MAC addresses.
Unfortunately, not many users know that MAC addresses exist or why.
MAC stands for Media Access Control. Every network interface card or NIC has a MAC address, a unique identification on a network. It is a 12-digit hexadecimal number mostly represented by colon-hexadecimal notation.
[Read about the differences between MAC addresses and IP addresses.]
The first six digits in a MAC address identify the manufacturer; this is the “organizationally unique identifier” or OUI. The IEEE Registration Authority Committee assigns these prefixes to registered vendors and manufacturers.
The next six digits are assigned by the manufacturer; this is the “network interface controller,” a unique name given to the device.
When information is transmitted across the network, it is directed to a specific MAC address, much as a letter is directed to a specific individual. It is imperative that addresses are unique to avoid confusion and network bottlenecks.
Usually, you do not need to read the number, but you should check that they are unique to avoid conflicts. There are many ways to find out the MAC address and associate with IP addresses. I like free tools like Advanced IP Scanner and Angry IP Scanner.
You can also use the command line ipconfig /all. When you type it you will see all the interfaces on the device and what adaptors are using them.
If you want to see how your MAC address is reported, do the following: From the command prompt of a PC, type ipconfig /all. This will give you the MAC address of the interfaces on the PC. Then go here and type the MAC address.
There are ways to spoof or change MAC addresses, but I caution against doing so because it can misrepresent identification. Also be aware that some equipment does identify by MAC address, especially if it is traversing multiple networks.
If you’re interested in this topic, here’s a useful article.
