Some Windows 10 network adapters allow a locally administered MAC address to be set in the driver properties. This can help with legitimate testing or compatibility, but it should not be used to impersonate another device or bypass network access controls.
Check whether the adapter supports an override
Open Device Manager > Network adapters, right-click the relevant adapter, and choose Properties. On the Advanced tab, look for Network Address, Locally Administered Address, or a similar vendor-specific option.
Enter a valid locally administered address
If supported, select Value and enter the format required by the driver. Avoid copying another active device’s MAC address, which can cause network conflicts.
Restart the adapter and verify
Disable/re-enable the adapter or restart Windows, then run ipconfig /all or getmac to confirm the active physical address.
Restore the hardware/default address
Return the property to Not Present or its default setting and restart the adapter. If the driver does not expose a supported override, do not install unknown “MAC changer” software just to force one.
Windows 10 standard support ended in 2025. On managed networks, coordinate address changes with the network administrator because DHCP reservations, NAC, and monitoring systems can depend on expected device identities.
Expect the network to treat the change as a new device
A router can issue a different DHCP lease or apply different network rules after a MAC change. If connectivity disappears, restore the default address and renew the connection before changing unrelated TCP/IP settings.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
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