How to Change MAC Address on Windows 11

Every device that connects to the internet has a unique ID called a MAC address. Think of it like a digital fingerprint for your computer. While you cannot physically change this ID, Windows 11 lets you “spoof” it, which means you can temporarily tell the network to see your computer as having a different ID.

Why change your MAC address?

People usually do this to fix specific network connection problems or to get past certain security filters on a private network.

What happens when you are done?

Your computer will use the new ID you created. Your network will treat your computer as if it were a different device until you change it back or restart your network adapter.

How to change your MAC address in Windows 11

Follow these steps to update your address. Please note that these steps require admin privileges to complete.

First, open your settings. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard or by clicking Start and then Settings.

Once the Settings window is open, click System on the left, then scroll down and click About on the right side of the screen.

In the About menu, look for Device Manager and click it to open a new window.

In the Device Manager, find the section called Network adapters and click the small arrow next to it to see your hardware. Right-click the adapter you are currently using and select Properties.

In the window that pops up, click the Advanced tab. Look through the list in the Property box until you find Locally Administered Address. Click on it, then select the Value box on the right. Type in your new 12-digit code using numbers 0-9 and letters A-F.

Click OK to save your changes. To confirm your computer is using the new ID, open the Command Prompt and type the following command:

ipconfig /all

Summary

Changing your MAC address is a simple way to troubleshoot network issues by giving your computer a new digital ID. You can manage this through the Device Manager by selecting Locally Administered Address under the Advanced tab of your network adapter. Always make sure your new address follows the 12-digit alphanumeric format to keep your connection stable.