How to Turn On or Off Random Hardware (MAC) Addresses for Wi-Fi in Windows 11
You turn on or off random hardware (MAC) addresses for Wi-Fi in Windows 11 to enhance your online privacy.
Random hardware addresses, also known as MAC randomization, create a unique, temporary MAC address for each Wi-Fi network you connect to. This prevents network operators from tracking your device across different locations using its permanent hardware identifier.
Windows 11 offers this privacy feature by default for Wi-Fi connections. You can easily manage this setting directly within your network adapter properties.
Open Settings, go to Network & internet, then Wi-Fi. Use the toggle to turn Random hardware addresses On or Off for all networks. For specific networks, go to Manage known networks, select a network, and choose your preferred setting from the Random hardware addresses drop-down.
What is Wi-Fi and MAC Address?
Wi-Fi is a way your computer connects to the Internet without wires, using radio waves. Every Wi-Fi device has a unique ID called a MAC address (like a name tag for your device).
When your PC looks for Wi-Fi networks nearby, it sends out this MAC address. Some public places, like shopping malls or stores, might use this to track your device as you move around.
To protect your privacy, Windows 11 can use random hardware addresses. This means your PC uses a different, random ID when searching for or connecting to Wi-Fi networks so others can’t easily track you.
Two Ways to Use Random Hardware Addresses
- For all Wi-Fi networks: Use random addresses for every network your PC connects to.
- For a specific Wi-Fi network: Use random addresses only for certain networks you pick.
How to Turn On or Off Random Hardware Addresses for All Wi-Fi Networks
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Click Network & internet on the left side, then click Wi-Fi on the right.
- Click the toggle to turn Random hardware addresses On or Off for all networks.
- Close Settings when done.
How to Turn On or Off Random Hardware Addresses for a Specific Wi-Fi Network
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Click Network & internet on the left, then Wi-Fi on the right.
- Click Manage known networks.
- Find and click the Wi-Fi network you want to change.
- In the drop-down for Random hardware addresses, choose On, Off, or Change daily.
- Close Settings when finished.
Open Manage Known Networks Settings
Why Should You Use Random Hardware Addresses?
- It helps keep your device private by stopping others from tracking your location using your MAC address.
- You can turn it on for all networks or just for some you want extra privacy on.
- It’s easy to change anytime in your Windows 11 Settings.
- Good practice to check your Wi-Fi privacy settings regularly.
- Protect yourself especially when using public Wi-Fi in places like cafes, airports, or shopping centers.
By turning on random hardware addresses, you take a simple step to keep your online activity more private.
Does 🪟 Windows 11 use a random MAC address?
Windows 10/11 To change the random MAC address setting: Click the Network icon in the bottom right system tray. Click Network & Internet Settings. Switch the toggle for Use Random Hardware Addresses to either enable or disable private MAC addressing.
Is it safe to turn off random MAC address?
Yes. Apple allows users to disable MAC randomization per network. However, the default behavior is for the feature to be turned on, and users often don't realize it's enabled. This can result in recurring issues every time they connect to secure or managed Wi-Fi.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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