How to Turn On or Off Random Hardware (MAC) Addresses for Wi-Fi in Windows 11
Random hardware addresses (MAC addresses) protect your privacy on Windows 11 by hiding your network adapter’s permanent physical ID behind a temporary identifier. A MAC address (Media Access Control address) is a unique serial number assigned to your Wi-Fi card that stores, cafes, and public networks use to track your location as you move.
Windows 11 turns on this privacy feature by default for every wireless network you join. You can change this setting on or off for individual Wi-Fi connections or all networks at once inside your network settings.
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.
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 Win+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 Win+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.
Managing a random MAC address Windows 11 setting for a single connection lets you control privacy on specific Wi-Fi networks without changing how your computer connects to others. You can turn this feature on, turn it off, or set it to change every day by opening your network settings and picking the Wi-Fi network you want to update.
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 setting stops people on public Wi-Fi networks from tracking your physical location or monitoring your device by its permanent hardware ID. Turning on this feature masks your computer's real physical address, giving you better online privacy whenever you connect to wireless networks outside your home.
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, other operating systems like macOS also support MAC randomization per network, though the default setting is typically active. This behavior can result in recurring connection quirks whenever devices join secure or managed enterprise 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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