How to Find MAC Address on Windows 10 – A Complete Guide
Every device on a network has a unique identifier called the Media Access Control (MAC) address. It is a combination of letters and numbers assigned to network adapters to recognize them on the internet. Finding the MAC address of your Windows 10 computer is vital for troubleshooting network issues, monitoring the usage of devices on the network, and improving security. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find MAC address on Windows 10.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Find MAC Address on Windows 10
The easiest way to find the MAC address of your Windows 10 computer is to use Command Prompt and PowerShell. Follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and click on Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type “getmac /v /fo list” in the command prompt and press Enter.
- The MAC address is located under Physical Address in the Command Prompt window.
- Alternatively, you can use the PowerShell to find the MAC address. Type “Get-NetAdapter | Format-List Name, MacAddress” in the PowerShell window and press Enter.
- The MAC address will be displayed under the “MacAddress” tab.
If you prefer not to use the command line, there are alternative methods to find the MAC address on Windows 10. Go to the Settings app, select “Network and Internet,” and click on “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” on the left panel. Click on “Hardware properties,” and the MAC address will be displayed under “Physical Address.” You can also navigate to the Network Connections folder in the File Explorer, right-click on the network adapter, and select “Properties.” The MAC address can be found under the “Value” section of the “Physical address” label.
Comparison of Different Methods for Finding MAC Address
Aside from built-in tools in Windows 10, there are also third-party software options that you can use to find the MAC address. Some popular options include Wireless Network Watcher, NirSoft MACAddressView, and NetCut. The advantage of using third-party software is that they can provide additional details about network connectivity, bandwidth usage, and device activity.
Additionally, several tips and tricks can help you find the MAC address in uncommon situations. For instance, you can use the command “arp -a” to find the MAC address of devices on the same network. You can also check your router or modem’s network setup page to determine the MAC address of all connected devices.
Video Tutorial for Finding MAC Address on Windows 10
Video tutorials are excellent resources for visual learners. Here is a tutorial on how to find MAC address on Windows 10:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe2nT3jv1fU
What is a MAC Address and Why It Matters
A MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to network adapters that enables devices to communicate with each other even if they’re connected to different networks. Knowing your MAC address is crucial for securing your network against unauthorized access. By whitelisting specific MAC addresses on your router, you can block other devices from accessing your network. You can also use MAC address filtering to control the network connection of specific devices on your network. This is especially helpful when you have children or guests who need restricted access to the internet.
Common Problems & How to Troubleshoot Them
If you’re experiencing issues finding the MAC address on Windows 10, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Make sure your network adapter drivers are up to date by checking the manufacturer’s website. You can also try disabling and enabling the network adapter in Device Manager. Sometimes, a simple restart of the computer can solve the problem. If all else fails, you can contact Microsoft support or search online forums for further assistance.
Conclusion
Knowing how to find MAC address on Windows 10 is essential for troubleshooting network issues, improving security or monitoring device usage. Whether you use the Command Prompt, PowerShell, Settings app, or third-party software, it’s important to find the MAC address to maintain proper control over your network. With the step-by-step guide, tutorial video, and additional tips provided in this article, you should have no trouble finding your MAC address and being able to take the necessary actions to secure your network.
So, take the time today to locate your MAC address and enjoy additional peace of mind with increased network security. Also, if you found this article helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends and family who may find it useful too.
