Overview

Every computer's network interface has a unique identifer called a MAC address. It is a 12 digit hexadecimal number usually delimted by colons, e.g. ab:01:23:ef:45:dc. Both wired and wireless network interfaces have these addresses.

Finding the Ethernet MAC Address

Microsoft Windows

For PCs running Windows 7 and earlier, Go to Start Menu > Programs > Accessories > DOS Command Prompt. Type cmd. For PCs running Windows 8 and later, launch the "Command" program by searching for it in your applications list. When the command window appears, type ipconfig /all. The Physical Address value for your ethernet card is your MAC address. Make sure you're looking at your ethernet interface and not your wireless interface.

Apple macOS

From the Terminal

Type "networksetup -listallhardwareports" in a Terminal window. The "Ethernet Address" field for the ethernet hardware port is your MAC address. If there are too many ports listed and you're not sure which is your active ethernet port, try one of the options below.

Recent macOS (System Settings)

1. Go to the Apple menu > System Settings > Network.
2. Click on the wired network device you plan on using, then click Details.
3. Click on the Hardware label in the left column. The MAC address will be on the right.

Older macOS (System Preferences)

1. Go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Network (under "Internet and Wireless").
2. Make sure that the ethernet interfaces is selected on the left side.
3. Click on the Advanced button on the right, and then the Hardware tab. The MAC address is listed there.

Linux

Type ip link in a terminal window. The link/ether field associated with your ethernet interface is your MAC address.