A Media Access Control (MAC) address is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface controller for use as a network address in communications within a network segment. Altering this address on an Android device involves modifying the hardware’s identification as it is presented to other devices on a network. For example, an Android phone with a specific hardware identifier might be configured to appear as though it possesses a different one when connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
The practice of changing the hardware identifier can be undertaken for several reasons. It can enhance privacy by preventing tracking based on the device’s original identifier. In network troubleshooting scenarios, it can assist in resolving connectivity issues related to address filtering. Historically, the ability to modify this identifier has been implemented through various methods, ranging from command-line tools requiring root access to specialized applications designed for this purpose. However, its implementation and the ease with which it can be accomplished have varied significantly across different Android versions and device manufacturers.