How to Get Mac Address from Arch Linux

When it comes to online security, one of the most important steps is protecting your unique identifier - the Media Access Control (MAC) address. This unique code identifies the specific network card you use to connect to a computer network and can be used to track your online activities. In this article, we will show you how to generate a new MAC address every time you connect to a computer network using Arch Linux.

A MAC address is a 12-digit hexadecimal number that is present in all networking hardware. It is similar to an IP address in its ability to uniquely identify you, but more directly tied to the hardware you are using. Some routers identify you by your MAC address, giving you a specific IP as a result or allowing you to use their services.

However, using your real MAC address can be risky, especially when connecting to free public networks offered by major coffee chains or fast food dispensaries. It's trivial and likely being done to build entire profiles on you based around your MAC address. This is because it's a unique identifier that can be used to track you while online.

Fortunately, Arch Linux and most up-to-date Linux distributions using systemd allow you to generate a new MAC address every time you connect to a computer network. Here's how:

Setup Automatic Random MAC Address Creation in Linux

To set up automatic random MAC address creation in Arch Linux, follow these steps:

1. Open the Network Manager application on your system.

2. Click on the 'Edit' button next to 'Wired' or 'Wireless' (depending on which type of connection you want to change).

3. In the 'Edit' window, scroll down to the 'MAC address' section and select 'Randomize'.

4. Save the changes.

From now on, your Arch Linux system will generate a new random MAC address every time you connect to a computer network. This is especially important when using free public networks or connecting to routers that identify devices by their MAC addresses.

By following these simple steps, you can protect your online identity and stay safe while browsing the internet. Remember, it's always a good idea to take extra precautions when using public Wi-Fi networks.

How to get mac address from arch linux