What is a MAC Address on an Android Phone?

A Media Access Control (MAC) address is a unique identifier assigned to every computer device, including mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. It's also known as a Wi-Fi Address or Device Unique Identifier. In this article, we'll explore what a MAC address is, how it works, and how you can find and change your Android phone's MAC address.

What is a MAC Address?

A MAC address is a 12-digit string that consists of numbers and letters. It's used to identify devices on a network and is often referred to as the 'physical' address of a device. Each device has a unique MAC address, which makes it easier for devices to communicate with each other.

How Do I Find My Android Phone's MAC Address?

Finding your Android phone's MAC address is relatively simple. Here are the steps:

1. Go to Settings by pressing the Menu key and selecting Settings.

2. Scroll down and select Wireless & networks or About Device, depending on your device model.

3. Tap Status or Hardware Information (depending on your device model).

4. Your Wi-Fi MAC address should be visible here.

Alternatively, you can also find your Android phone's MAC address by:

1. Pressing the Menu button and selecting Settings.

2. Tapping the gear icon associated with the wireless connection to be configured.

3. Selecting Wireless & networks or About Device (depending on your device model).

4. Scrolling down to see your WiFi MAC address.

Can Apps Store My MAC Address?

Apple engineers have stated that iOS 11 does not allow apps to read MAC addresses as a privacy feature, due to concerns about companies misusing unique identifiers to track users. However, it's still possible for apps to store other types of unique identifiers, such as IP addresses or device IDs.

How Can I Access a Device by Its MAC Address?

To access a device using its MAC address, you can use the arp -a command to find the related IP address. You can also use Remote Desktop Management, Telnet programs, or other connection facilities that support MAC address lookup.

Changing My Randomized MAC Address on Android

If you want to change your randomized MAC address on Android, you'll need to use a third-party app or root your device. Here's how:

1. Download and install a MAC address changing app from the Google Play Store.

2. Grant the app necessary permissions.

3. Follow the app's instructions to change your MAC address.

Keep in mind that changing your MAC address may not be necessary for most users, as it's primarily used by network administrators to manage devices on a network.

In conclusion, a MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to every device, including Android phones and tablets. Finding and using your MAC address can be useful for various purposes, such as accessing devices remotely or tracking location information. By following the steps outlined above, you can find and change your Android phone's MAC address if needed.

What is mac address on android phone