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MacMakeUp

A networking program that allows users to quickly change their MAC addresses 

4.5

12 Votes

  • Category Analysis
  • Program license Free
  • Version 1.95d
  • Size 557.67 kB
  • Works under: Windows Vista
  • Program available in English
  • Program by Marcello Gorlani

MacMakeup is a free application for Windows 2000/WinXP/Vista/Win7 that allows the real-time change of the MAC address of any interface on the system. It also features the ability to tune ordinarily-hidden parameters for system tuning and security validation. MacMakeup is one of those handy tools to keep around just in case.

The practice of changing MAC addresses is sometimes referred to as "MAC address spoofing.” MacMakeup allows you to set the interface address to one of your choosing. You can also create a new MAC using various online tools. MAC addresses can be crafted to resemble different types of interfaces and systems.

MacMakeup is a simple and lightweight application. It spoofs the chosen interface’s MAC address by adding an entry in the Windows registry. On some older UNIX-like OS’s, this software-created MAC was called an LAA (Locally Administered Address). The hardware MAC address of the interface remains embedded on the network controller, however the MAC address shown to the network comes from the registry entry.

MacMakeup presents a list of installed interfaces. Choose the one from the menu you’d like to change, add the MAC address you’d like to associate with it, and away you go.

Yes, there are legitimate reasons to "spoof" an interface's MAC address. One is the dreaded MAC address conflict. The 48-bit length of the MAC address provides trillions of unique addresses. Still, due to human error and the multi-vendor nature of most deployments, MAC address conflicts still occur. When two systems on the same network share a MAC address, strange and unpredictable things can happen.

The other reason to change a MAC address: When a critical system is known to a router only by MAC address, replacing that system without taking an extended outage will require a new interface with the same MAC address as the old. Sometimes, reconfiguring the switch or router isn’t an option. The ability to spoof the router while hardware is quickly changed is a definite advantage.

All told, MacMakeup is a great tool for Windows power users and sysadmins everywhere. It pays to get familiar with MacMakeup's functions before it's needed.

Pros:

  • Easy MAC address changes
  • Access to hidden and obscure parameters
  • Lightweight and easy-to-install
  • Freeware

Cons:

  • Changes only registry entry — no alteration of interface firmware
  • Works only on older Windows versions
  • Dangerous in the wrong hands
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