A Media Access Control address (MAC address) is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface controller (NIC) for use as a network address in communications within a network segment. MAC addresses are used by network switches and routers to direct traffic to the correct destination on a network. They are typically written as a string of six hexadecimal numbers, separated by colons, for example, “00:11:22:33:44:55”.
Knowing how to check the MAC address of your network interface can be useful for a variety of reasons. For example, you may need to provide your MAC address to your internet service provider (ISP) or to a network administrator in order to troubleshoot a problem with your connection. Additionally, some software programs may require you to enter your MAC address in order to function properly.