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Locate Your Network Information

In some instances an STC 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 and Vista using the command IPCONFIG. Follow the instructions below for finding network information for Windows or Mac computers.

Note: MAC addresses are 12-digit numbers (i.e. 123456789012 or 12-34-56-78-90-12).

Windows XP/Vista Network Information

  • Click on Start in the Windows taskbar.
  • Click on Run.
  • 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 whose network information is desired in the "Show: drop down list".
  • 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 Student Technology Center (STC) or your computer manufacturer for assistance.

Student Technology Center
Email: techctr@resnet.ucla.edu | Phone: (310) 825-3400 | Fax: (310) 206-7753