Windows - Find MAC Address

Issue/Question

• How do I find the MAC address for my computer?
• How do I find the network adapter address for my computer?

Environment

• Oregon State University
• Wired or Wireless Network
• Windows

Explanation

The MAC address is a unique number associated with your device's network adapter. It is also called a Physical Address, Hardware Address, Ethernet ID or network adapter address on various systems. Your device's MAC address must be registered in order to receive network access on the OSU wired network.

Resolution

Method 1 - Use "getmac /v"

1. Press the Windows Key (the key next to Alt).
2. Type cmd (A search bar will automatically pop up).
   Search shown in Windows 10
   
3. Run the Command Prompt program.
4. Type in the command 'getmac /v'.
   
5. If you see multiple mac addresses listed, try using the ipconfig method below.

Method 2 - Use "ipconfig"

1. Press the Windows Key (the key next to Alt).
2. Type cmd (A search bar will automatically pop up).
   Search shown in Windows 10
   
3. Run the Command Prompt program.
4. Type in the command: ipconfig /all
5. Look for the appropriate "Physical Address."
6. You may see multiple MAC addresses listed:
   1. The one labeled "Wireless LAN adapter Wi-FI" is usually your wireless MAC address. 
   2. The one labeled "Ethernet adapter Ethernet X" (where X is a number) is usually your wired MAC address. 

Assistance

For assistance, contact the Service Desk.