Mac address! What is the mac address’ meaning? And what can you do with a mac address? This is what we are interested to know in this article. The term MAC here stands for “media access control.” It is one hardware aspect of your networking system.

Like an IP address (which is a software address), the Mac address is one hardware address that is directly connected to a network device in your PC, typically known as NIC or network interface card. 

So, in simple words, we can say that the Mac address is the physical serial number on your NIC card. Your network router accesses it to ensure the data flow.

What is an IP Address Then?

IP address stands for internet protocol, and it is a unique number provided by your ISP (Internet service provider). These addresses help your system connect with various internet devices. 

It’s a set of different numerical numbers. An example of an IP address could be 26.127.176. So, the basic difference between IP Address and a Mac address is their source. Your internet service provider provides an IP address, whereas your NIC Manufacturer provides a MAC address.

Is a Mac Address Accessible easily?

As we discussed, a Mac address is your network’s physical address which your system knows. It is only accessible by you through your system. Why only you? Because you are connected to your local area network system, and this is mandatory to access a Mac Address. 

This rule implies to all Mac addresses, whether on Windows, Mac Os, or Linux. In short, any Mac address isn’t that easily accessible.

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What can you do with a Mac address?

Well, your Mac address is your own property. It is just like your home address, where you spend most of your time. This is what you really do with such an address. You use it for accessing the World Wide Web. 

The interesting fact here is that the hackers try to access your Mac address for illegal purposes. So, here is what hackers can do with your Mac address. 

1: Bypass Wireless Encryption

Hackers try to bypass your wireless encryption. These are some defined wireless security encryptions that protect your connection. WEP, WPA, WPA2 all are different wireless security encryptions. WEP and WPA are the easiest for hackers to break down or bypass. You can secure your wireless connection via wireless penetration testing.

What To Do?

Always secure your network connection with WPA2 or higher encryption. This is one of the best ways to protect your Mac address. 

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2: Access Important Data

Hackers try to access your personal information stored on your system as they have to connect with your LAN or local area network system to hack your Mac Address. So, they bypass your LAN connection to get control over your system.

What to Do?

You should implement a NAP or Network Access Protection solution for your connection’s maximum safety and security.

Summary:

So you should have got the right solution for your question. Look, it is your property; it is not going anywhere. 

Though, it is always prone to suspicious attacks from hackers. So, you should keep your Mac address and IP address as secure as possible to avoid any mishaps.

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