Finding Your Operating System Version and MAC Address
This article will cover how to find the Operating System Version and MAC Address on commonly used devices.
What is an Operating System Version?
An Operating System (OS) is the software that provides basic functionality for the device. Examples include Windows, iOS, Android, Linux, etc. The Operating System version refers to the specific stage of the OS. Each version includes security updates and bug fixes and may have differences in the interface and features. Some examples of OS versions are Windows 10, iOS 15.2.1, Android Cupcake, etc.
Select your device to view instructions on how to find what OS version it's running.
These instructions were made using a Galaxy S10e on Android 11 and may vary slightly from what is seen on other models.
What is a MAC address?
MAC stands for Media Access Control. A MAC address is a permanent, unique identifier assigned to a device's network adapter/s. It consists of 12 alphanumeric characters separated into pairs by colons or hyphens. The MAC address may be referred to by other names such as physical address, Wi-Fi address, etc.
Select your device to view instructions on how to find its MAC address.
1. Open a Command Prompt.

A. Click the magnifying glass icon to open Search.
B. Type cmd into the search bar.
C. Click on Command Prompt.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig /all and press Enter.

Type ipconfig /all into the window and hit the Enter key.
3. Scroll to find the MAC address, which will be labeled Physical Address.

If you need your wireless MAC address, look for the section labeled as Wi-Fi. If you need your wired MAC address, look for the section labeled as Ethernet.
If you're working with tech support and you're not sure which MAC address you need to provide, give them both and identify which is the Wi-Fi MAC address and which is the Ethernet MAC address.
1. Click the Apple icon to open the Apple menu. Then select System Preferences.

A. Open the Apple menu by clicking the Apple icon.
B. Click System Preferences from the menu.
These instructions were made using a Galaxy S10e on Android 11 and may vary slightly from what is seen on other models.
Need More Help?
Faculty and Staff should contact the IT Help Desk at [email protected] or 657-278-7777 for additional assistance.
Students should contact the Student IT Help Desk at [email protected] or 657-278-8888 for additional assistance.