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Terme informatique

MAC Address

The physical identifier of a network interface used mainly on the local network.

Networking
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Simple definition

The MAC address identifies an Ethernet or Wi-Fi network card on the local network.

Technical definition

It is usually coded over 48 bits and used at the data link level. Les switch is learning the addresses of the MAC addresses on their ports to transmit the frames to the right place.

What’s the point?. ?

Identify an interface on the LAN, reserve a DHCP address or diagnose the path of a frame.

Concrete example.

The DHCP server recognizes the printer’s MAC address and always assigns the same IP address to the printer.

Common problems.

  • Random MAC address on mobile devices
  • Table Mac of the Saturated or Incorrect Switch
  • Confusion between address(s) and IP address(s).
  • Easily aroundable Mac filtering

IP address · DHCP · Switch · LAN · Wi-Fi

To be noted: This sheet shows the general operation of the term. The exact settings can vary according to the software, builders and environments.

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