What is MAC Address? Įvery device connected to a network has a Media Access Control (MAC) address that uniquely identifies it, much like every house has a unique postal address.Ī network interface controller (NIC) is given a media access control address (MAC address), which it can use as a network address in communications inside a network segment. Let's learn a little bit more about them before we get into more detail about the distinction between MAC address and IP address. It enables us to uniquely identify a certain device on the access network. On the other hand, the MAC address guarantees the computer device's precise location. The IP address of a device is crucial for determining a network's connection (using which the device is connecting to the network).

There are significant differences between a MAC address and an IP address. The IP address is generated by the ISP (Internet Service Provider), whereas the MAC address is provided by the Network Interface Controller (NIC)manufacturer. If we apply this example to networking, the MAC address will be the address of the particular node where we want to send the data, and the IP address will be the address of the network connection where several devices may be present.Ī MAC address and an IP address both help identify a device specifically on the internet.

The two items are the receiver's name and address, which may include a house number, street, city, state, and pin code (to identify the right person to deliver the courier specifically). To effectively send the courier, the sender must provide two details about the recipient. Suppose someone has to deliver a package to someone else. So let's use an example to explain it to them before we define it. There is uncertainty between these two once more. Only with the aid of MAC( (Media Access Control) and IP addresses is this feasible. But the topic of how one device would uniquely identify the other devices in the network is something that always crosses our minds. MAC address and IP address: Differences and UsesĪll network devices in computer networks connect and communicate with one another.

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