MAC Address RandomizationSolved

Participant
Discussion
5 months ago

Hi, I’ve heard that MAC address randomization is now supported on Android devices managed by Hexnode UEM. Can anybody give me a bit more insight into what this feature does?

Replies (13)

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Hexnode Expert
5 months ago
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Hey @Kipp !

MAC address randomization is a feature that helps enhance privacy and security by changing the device’s MAC address. This makes it more difficult for networks and third parties to track your device based on its MAC address.

Here’s a quick overview of options under the MAC address randomization feature:

  • Persistent: The device will use the same random MAC address for a Wi-Fi network even if you forget and reconnect to it. The MAC address only changes after a factory reset.
  • Non-Persistent: The MAC address changes every time you connect to a Wi-Fi network, providing a high level of privacy.
  • Auto: The device automatically chooses whether to use a Persistent or Non-Persistent MAC address.
  • Disable: The device uses its factory MAC address, which is unique and does not change.
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Participant
5 months ago
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This sounds useful. But what are the practical use cases for each of these options? 

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Hexnode Expert
5 months ago
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Sure, let’s look at some practical scenarios for each option:

  • Persistent: Useful in environments where a stable MAC address is needed for network policies or security, like in corporate networks where devices need to be recognized.
  • Non-Persistent: Ideal for users who prioritize privacy, as it prevents tracking based on the MAC address.
  • Auto: Convenient for general users who want a balance of security and privacy without manually configuring settings.
  • Disable: Necessary for situations where a device’s unique identifier is required, such as in certain enterprise environments.
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Participant
5 months ago
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So, using Persistent in a corporate setting would help manage network access, right? Also, for someone concerned about privacy, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi, what would be the best choice? 

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Hexnode Expert
5 months ago
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Exactly. The Persistent option allows IT admins to apply consistent network policies while still providing a layer of privacy. The MAC address remains stable for the network but can be reset if needed. For someone concerned about privacy, especially when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, the Non-Persistent option is the best. It ensures that your device gets a new MAC address every time it connects, making it harder to track your movements across different networks.

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Participant
5 months ago
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That’s very helpful. Thanks for the detailed explanation, Ben!

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Participant
5 months ago
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Yes, thanks a lot. This will help us enhance our network’s security and privacy. 

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Hexnode Expert
5 months ago
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You’re welcome! Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance. 

Best regards, 
Ben Clarke   
Hexnode UEM 

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Participant
3 months ago
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Hi guys, how can you change these settings for Android please? I’m not seeing a way under the WIFI settings in the policies? Thank you

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Hexnode Expert
3 months ago
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Hey @adamatwork,

Thank you for reaching out to us. 

You can find the MAC Randomisation setting by following these steps: 

  1. Log in to your Hexnode UEM portal. 
  2. Go to Policies
  3. Create a new policy or select an existing one. 
  4. Navigate to Android > Networks > Wi-Fi.  
  5. Configure MAC Randomisation setting on Android devices via Hexnode UEM

Feel free to reach out if you have any further queries. 

Cheers, 
Eden Pierce 
Hexnode UEM 

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Participant
3 months ago
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Thank you, that is odd, I dont have the option?

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Hexnode Expert
3 months ago
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Hello @adamatwork

We apologize for the inconvenience, but it looks like your portal has not been updated. We’ve initiated a request to update your portal, and our team will get to it at as quickly as possible. We appreciate your patience during this process. 

Best regards, 
Eden Pierce 
Hexnode UEM 

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Hexnode Expert
2 months ago
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Hello @adamatwork

The portal has been updated. Kindly check and let us know if you need any further assistance. Thank you for your patience. 

Best regards, 
Eden Pierce 
Hexnode UEM