Think about this as putting a nametag on every gear that connects to a data pipe.

MAC-Binding Explained

MAC-binding allows you to “bind” an IP address to a MAC address.

What Is an IP Address?

Two hands typing on a laptop

The internet is a combination of different networks.

Each web link is known as an internet service provider (ISP).

There are two models of IP addresses:static and dynamic.

Hand with magnifying glass examining pins on a map

A dynamic IP address changes when the connected rig disconnects from the web connection.

This IP address can even be assigned to another rig when it is not in use.

A dynamic IP is assigned automatically by aDHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)server.

Screenshot of MAC Address Format

What Is a MAC Address?

A MAC address (also called a media access control address) is a 12-character unique identifier.

How Does MAC-Binding Work?

example mac address

This list is called the MAC-binding table.

Once confirmed, you’re assigned a corresponding IP address from the table.

The DHCP server also assigns a lease time with the IP address.

Screenshot of IP Address and MAC Address

If your equipment is still connected around the time the lease expires, it’ll request another IP address.

web link administrators can also use MAC-binding to detect the equipment that carried out a specific online activity.

If youchange your IPor MAC address, you will be unable to enter the connection.

Screenshot of DHCP Interface

Measures such as these make your internet more stable and secure.

Also, data pipe administrators can use MAC-binding to trace online activities to a specific gear.

Improved Security

With MAC-binding, there can be no third-party access.

Lock and key illustrating encryption

Only registered MAC addresses would be assigned IPs and be able to communicate on the data pipe.

This layer of security is useful against threat actors, as it blocks unauthorized entry.

3. gear Identification

Threat actors are becoming harder to apprehend due to their detection evasion techniques.

a man with two monitors in front of him

Improved Efficiency

Different devices may have the same IP address.

This is because each unit is singly registered on the internet.

And by eliminating any chance ofIP conflicts, data pipe efficiency and connectivity are improved.

Reserved IPs

Mac-binding also allows connection administrators to reserve IP addresses for “special” devices.

This way, firewall policies can be configured and priority given to certain devices.

MAC Address Spoofing

Indeed, each MAC address comes directly with your machine, assigned by its manufacturer.

ButMAC addresses can be alteredor completely changed.

Threat actors use MAC address spoofing to hack wireless networks and steal sensitive information and login credentials.

A second gear can connect to a registered one and perform all online activities through it.

However, to the connection, the registered machine would be the only one present.

There would be no trace of the second machine.

Stressful Manual Configuration

MAC-binding can be stressful and time-consuming.

For example, as a connection administrator, you must manually register new devices in the DHCP table.

MAC-binding has many advantages, and its merits completely outweigh its limitations.