Remember MAC
Full name: Media Access Control
Memory aid: Media Access has a local hardware-style address.
MAC addresses can be changed or randomized and are not proof of identity.
Study area: Network architecture & switching · Batch 2
Relevant study for: CompTIA Network+ N10-009 · Cisco CCNA 200-301 · CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 · ISC2 CISSP 2024 outline
Practice with exam flashcards →Networking & Connectivity / Knowledge library
MAC — Media Access Control
Identifies the data-link access sublayer and associated interface addresses.
Why learn MAC — Media Access Control?
Identifies the data-link access sublayer and associated interface addresses.
Where it came from
MAC addresses can be changed or randomized and are not proof of identity.
- Memory aid (a learning cue, not the expansion): Media Access has a local hardware-style address.
Build your understanding
Work through these exercises in order. Try the task before opening a reference.
- Without looking, expand MAC: Media Access Control.
- Recall this memory aid: Media Access has a local hardware-style address.
- Explain the practical use: Identifies the data-link access sublayer and associated interface addresses.
- Explain this distinction: MAC addresses can be changed or randomized and are not proof of identity.
- Identify MAC in a device specification, architecture diagram, or system inventory.
Documentation and sources
- IEEE 802 LAN/MAN standards (www.ieee802.org)
- IETF Internet standards (www.rfc-editor.org)