Every device connected to a network has a MAC address—a unique identifier used to communicate with other devices. On Windows 11, finding the MAC address is quick and simple, but there are multiple methods to choose from depending on your needs.
In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through different ways to find the MAC address on Windows 11, explain what a MAC address actually is, and answer some common questions about why you might need it.
What is a MAC Address?
A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a unique 12-character identifier assigned to your device’s network adapter. It looks something like this:
00-1A-2B-3C-4D-5E
Think of it like your device’s license plate number on a digital highway—it uniquely identifies your PC in a network.
Why Do You Need to Know Your MAC Address?
You might need to find your MAC address for several reasons:
- Network troubleshooting – IT support often asks for your MAC address.
- MAC filtering on routers – Allow or block devices from connecting.
- Security monitoring – Identify unauthorized devices on your network.
- Licensing and software setup – Some apps bind licenses to your MAC address.
Types of MAC Addresses
Before finding it, let’s understand the two main types:
- Wired MAC Address – Assigned to your Ethernet adapter.
- Wireless MAC Address – Assigned to your Wi-Fi adapter.
A single laptop can have multiple MAC addresses if it supports both Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Method 1: Find MAC Address via Settings App
The easiest way to find the MAC address in Windows 11 is through the Settings app.
Steps:
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Choose Wi-Fi or Ethernet (depending on your connection).
- Click on your network name.
- Scroll down to Properties.
- Look for Physical address (MAC).
That’s your MAC address!
Method 2: Find MAC Address Using Command Prompt
If you like using commands, this method is fast.
Steps:
- Press Win + S, type
cmd, and open Command Prompt. - Type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /all - Look under Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter.
- Find Physical Address – that’s your MAC address.
Method 3: Find MAC Address with PowerShell
PowerShell is another quick way.
Steps:
- Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (PowerShell).
- Enter this command:
Get-NetAdapter - You’ll see a list of network adapters with their MAC addresses.
Method 4: Find MAC Address from Control Panel
Old-school but still works!
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
ncpa.cpl, and press Enter. - Right-click your active network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Select Status > Details.
- Look for Physical Address.
Method 5: Find MAC Address Using Task Manager
Yes, Task Manager can show it too.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Performance tab.
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- At the bottom, you’ll see the MAC address.
Method 6: Find MAC Address from System Information Tool
The built-in System Information tool gives you detailed device info.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
msinfo32, and press Enter. - Navigate to Components > Network > Adapter.
- Scroll until you see MAC Address.
Method 7: Find MAC Address in Network Connection Properties
Another simple way through network properties.
Steps:
- Right-click your Wi-Fi or Ethernet icon in the taskbar.
- Select Network and Internet settings.
- Click Advanced network settings.
- Select your adapter and view its details.
Method 8: Find MAC Address via Router Settings
If you can’t access Windows, your router can still help.
Steps:
- Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually via
192.168.1.1). - Go to Connected Devices / DHCP Clients List.
- Find your PC in the list – the MAC address will be displayed.
Method 9: Find Randomized MAC Address in Windows 11
Windows 11 has a random MAC address feature for privacy.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
- Click your network name.
- Scroll down to see if Random hardware addresses is enabled.
If enabled, Windows may show a different MAC address for each network.
Method 10: Find MAC Address with Registry Editor (Advanced)
For advanced users, the Registry also stores MAC info.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\ {4d36e972-e325-11ce-bfc1-08002be10318} - Look for your adapter and find the NetworkAddress value.
MAC Address vs. IP Address: What’s the Difference?
- MAC Address = Hardware identifier (fixed, unique).
- IP Address = Network identifier (can change).
Think of it this way:
- MAC = Your home address (permanent).
- IP = Your mailing address (can change if you move).
When Would You Need to Change Your MAC Address?
Sometimes, users spoof (change) their MAC address for:
- Bypassing MAC filters on networks.
- Improving privacy.
- Testing network setups.
⚠️ Note: Changing MAC addresses should be done responsibly and ethically.
Troubleshooting: Can’t Find My MAC Address
If you don’t see a MAC address:
- Ensure the adapter/driver is installed.
- Update your network drivers.
- Check Device Manager for disabled adapters.
Final Thoughts
Finding your MAC address on Windows 11 is simple once you know where to look. Whether you prefer using the Settings app, Command Prompt, PowerShell, Task Manager, or even your router, Windows gives you multiple ways to access it.
Your MAC address is crucial for network troubleshooting, security, and connectivity, so it’s always good to know how to find it quickly.
FAQs
1. Can a device have more than one MAC address?
Yes, if your PC has both Wi-Fi and Ethernet adapters, each has its own MAC address.
2. Is my MAC address permanent?
Generally yes, but you can temporarily change or spoof it.
3. Can someone track me using my MAC address?
Not directly on the internet, but MAC addresses can be tracked on local networks.
4. Does a VPN hide my MAC address?
No, a VPN hides your IP address, not your MAC address.
5. Can I find my MAC address without internet access?
Yes, methods like Command Prompt, Control Panel, and Task Manager work offline.