LOCATE YOUR NETWORK INFORMATION
In some instances an IT technician may ask you for your network information such as your IP address or MAC address. This article discusses how you can find this information on your computer.
Finding the MAC (Media Access Control) Address
In some cases, the MAC address will be physically printed on the network adapter itself or on the back of the computer or laptop. On a laptop with a PC card type adapter, the MAC address should be printed on the card. On a desktop or laptop with an integrated (internal) network card, you'll need to find it in Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 using the command IPCONFIG. Follow the instructions below for finding network information for Windows or Mac computers..
Note: MAC addresses are 12 digits and contain a combination of the numbers 0 through 9 and the letters a through f (i.e., 1234567890ab or 00-00-c0-78-90-12).
Windows XP/Vista/Windows7 Network Information
- Click on Start in the Windows taskbar.
- Click on Run (When using Windows 7, Click on Start and simply begin typing).
- Type in 'cmd' and hit Enter. A DOS command prompt window should open, which appears usually as a window with a black background with a blinking cursor.
- Type in 'ipconfig /all' and hit Enter.
- Details are shown for each of the computer's network adapters. Computers installed with VPN software or emulation software will possess one or more virtual adapters.
- Look for the Physical Address. This is the MAC address. It should be formatted to look something like 12-AB-56-1A-00-17.
- Look for the IP Address. It should be formatted to look something like 169.58.54.178.
Mac OS X 10.4 & 10.5 Network Information
- Select the Apple icon in the upper left corner of your screen.
- Open 'System Preferences' (usually found in the Dock) and select Network. Pick a location and specify the interface for which the network information is desired in the "Show: drop downlist".
- For Wired Connections, select Ethernet.
- Click on the button [Advanced...].
- Select Ethernet. The MAC address is labeled "Ethernet ID".
- Select TCP/IP. The IP Address is labeled "IPv4 Address".
- For Wireless Connections, select AirPort.
- Click on the button [Advanced]
- Select Ethernet. The MAC address is labeled "Airport ID".
- Select TCP/IP. The IP Address is labeled "IPv4 Address".
If you can't find the MAC address, IP address or other network information on your computer, please contact the IT Helpdesk or your computer manufacturer for assistance.
Please be aware that by using the MGC Residential Network you are agreeing to the MGC Student Computer Use Policy.
IT Helpdesk:
Click here to enter a helpdesk request: Helpdesk
or telephone us at (478) 934-3319