MAC address...?

Legend · 22 Feb 2007 at 17:24

What use is a MAC address exactly? If I leave my ISP do I need it? Why?? :confused:

ste_bla · 22 Feb 2007 at 17:29

MAC (Media Access Control IIRC) Address is a serial code on network items (ie cards, routers) and is in theory unique

MAC (Migration Authorisation Code) Code is a code from your current ISP to give to another ISP so they can take control of the DSL connection on your line. Normally valid for 30 days.

Legend · 22 Feb 2007 at 17:52

OK. But if I don't bother with obtaining the MAC address what problems could result from that?

benjo plz. · 22 Feb 2007 at 17:55

You're adsl line will be deactivated and you'll need to wait ages and possibly pay for it to be reactivated.

Legend · 22 Feb 2007 at 18:35

Even if you are moving to another ISP that is the case? Interesting.

But if you are not intending to get online again within 30 days, then the mac will expire?

ste_bla · 22 Feb 2007 at 19:42

Legend said:
OK. But if I don't bother with obtaining the MAC address what problems could result from that?

If you dont bother you cannot migrate to another ISP.

Legend said:
Even if you are moving to another ISP that is the case? Interesting.

But if you are not intending to get online again within 30 days, then the mac will expire?

"Not intending to get online again" makes me think your canceling your BB and want no BB at all fr a while?? If so you dont need a code as your not migrating your ceasing and then eventually providing.

Legend · 22 Feb 2007 at 19:49

ste_bla said:
"Not intending to get online again" makes me think your canceling your BB and want no BB at all fr a while?? If so you dont need a code as your not migrating your ceasing and then eventually providing.

Well, I'm moving with my sister and where we are living she has already got broadband, so I guess I have no need for my MAC code. Although I'm living with my dad at the moment and he is moving up to Scotland and he therefore may need it as he will want to get online up there. He won't be sticking with the same ISP though, but from what you're saying that doesn't matter, the MAC code will still be required. Only problem is that he's a bit of an idiot and leaving this all to him has me thinking he will be terribly confused.

HomerJ · 22 Feb 2007 at 20:00

Hi

A MAC is only for if you are wanting to change ISP but you must be staying at the same address and having the broadband on the same line.

You say your Dad is moving so he will not need a MAC as at the new address he will need to get a new installation done.

csmager · 22 Feb 2007 at 20:01

Legend said:
Well, I'm moving with my sister and where we are living she has already got broadband, so I guess I have no need for my MAC code. Although I'm living with my dad at the moment and he is moving up to Scotland and he therefore may need it as he will want to get online up there. He won't be sticking with the same ISP though, but from what you're saying that doesn't matter, the MAC code will still be required. Only problem is that he's a bit of an idiot and leaving this all to him has me thinking he will be terribly confused.

It won't be needed. The MAC applies to the line, not the user. He will need to pay for activation with whichever ISP he signs up with, MAC not required.