How to Turn On or Off Random Hardware (MAC) Addresses for Wi-Fi in Windows 11
You can turn random hardware addresses (think of them as unique, temporary IDs for your Wi-Fi connection) on or off in Windows 11 to boost your online privacy.
Random hardware addresses, also called MAC randomization, give your Windows 11 PC a unique, temporary ID for each Wi-Fi network. This security setting stops network operators from following your specific PC between different places using the PC's fixed, permanent hardware ID.
Windows 11 offers this privacy feature by default for Wi-Fi connections. You can manage this setting right 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 how your computer connects to the internet without wires. Every device, like your PC, has a unique identifier called a MAC address. Think of it as a digital name tag that Wi-Fi networks see when you connect, and your random MAC address Windows 11 is what your PC shares to join these networks.
That’s where Windows 11’s random hardware addresses come in. By using a different, random ID for Wi-Fi connections, your PC makes it harder for others to 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.
You can easily turn your random MAC address Windows 11 on or off for any Wi-Fi network you’ve connected to before. This lets you control your privacy on a network-by-network basis. Just open your Windows 11 Settings, go to the Wi-Fi section, and choose ‘Manage known networks’ to find the option for each saved network.
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.
Using a random MAC address Windows 11 is a simple way to boost your online privacy. It makes it much harder for websites or network owners to track your device’s location over time. By changing your digital name tag, you add a layer of protection, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Does 🪟 Windows 11 use a random MAC address?
To change the random MAC address setting in Windows 10/11: Find the Network icon in the bottom right system tray and click it. Then, click Network & Internet Settings. You’ll find a toggle labeled ‘Use Random Hardware Addresses’ – switch it to enable or disable this privacy feature.
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.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!