It’s easy to find the MAC address on Windows 11, and it only takes a few minutes. You can do this through the Command Prompt or Network Settings. Follow these steps to quickly locate your device’s MAC address.
How to Find MAC Address on Windows 11
In this guide, you’ll learn two simple methods to find the MAC address on a Windows 11 computer, which is a unique identifier for your network interface.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Start button at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
The Start Menu is your gateway to all the apps and settings on your Windows 11 PC. Opening it is as simple as clicking that familiar Windows icon.
Step 2: Type “Command Prompt” in the Search Bar
Enter “Command Prompt” and press Enter.
When you type “Command Prompt,” the system will show you the app that you need to open to find your MAC address with a few commands.
Step 3: Run Command Prompt as Administrator
Right-click on Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator.”
Running Command Prompt as an administrator gives you the elevated permissions needed to execute certain commands, ensuring you can access all necessary system information.
Step 4: Type “ipconfig /all” and Press Enter
In the Command Prompt window, type “ipconfig /all” and hit Enter.
This command displays all your network configurations. Among the displayed details, you’ll find the MAC address listed under your network adapter’s name as “Physical Address.”
Step 5: Locate the MAC Address
Scroll through the results until you find “Physical Address.”
Each network adapter will have its own “Physical Address” or MAC address. This is the unique identifier you’re looking for.
Once you complete these steps, your MAC address will be displayed. You’ll find it listed under the network adapter you are using.
Tips for Finding MAC Address on Windows 11
- Use Network Settings: You can also find the MAC address through Network Settings by navigating to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Hardware and connection properties.
- Write it Down: Once you find your MAC address, write it down or take a screenshot for future reference.
- Check Device Label: Sometimes, the MAC address is printed on a label on your device or its original packaging.
- Use System Information: Open System Information and navigate to Components > Network > Adapter to find your MAC address.
- Be Cautious: Never share your MAC address publicly as it can be used to track your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a MAC Address?
A MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface for communications on the physical network segment.
Why Do I Need to Know My MAC Address?
Knowing your MAC address can help with network troubleshooting, setting up network security filters, and identifying devices on a network.
Can a MAC Address Be Changed?
Technically, yes. Some network adapters allow you to change the MAC address, but this is not recommended as it can cause network issues.
Is the MAC Address the Same as an IP Address?
No, a MAC address is a hardware identifier, while an IP address is assigned to each device connected to a network for communication purposes.
Can I Find the MAC Address on a Mobile Device?
Yes, you can. On mobile devices, you can typically find the MAC address in the settings under Wi-Fi or About Phone.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Type “Command Prompt” in the Search Bar.
- Run Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type “ipconfig /all” and Press Enter.
- Locate the MAC Address.
Conclusion
Finding the MAC address on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be done through the Command Prompt or Network Settings. Whether you need it for network troubleshooting, setting up restrictions, or any other reason, knowing how to locate this unique identifier is essential.
With the steps outlined above, you can confidently find your MAC address in just a few minutes. Remember, staying informed about these basic networking tasks can save you a lot of time and headaches in the long run. If you’re interested in diving deeper, consider reading more about network security practices and why MAC addresses play a crucial role in it.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.