How to View a Computer Using the Mac Address

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You can view a remote computer using its MAC address.

Viewing a computer using its MAC address is useful if you want to view or use a computer on a local network, but you only know the computer's MAC address. This is different from how computers are usually accessed remotely, because the IP address is usually used. The IP address must be determined using the MAC address.

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Step 1

Click "Start," right-click "Computer" and click "Properties" on the computer that you want to view. Click "Remote Settings" on the left.

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Step 2

Click "Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (more secure)." Click "OK" and close the Computer Properties window. Remote Desktop is now enabled, which allows you to view the computer remotely.

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Step 3

Press the "Windows" and "R" keys to open the Run program on a second computer. Type "cmd" and press "Enter" to start Command Prompt.

Step 4

Type "arp -a" (without the quotes) and press "Enter." A list of the IP and corresponding MAC addresses of the computers on the local network are displayed. Leave this window open.

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Step 5

Click "Start," "All Programs," "Accessories" and "Remote Desktop Connection." View the Command Prompt window again and type the IP address to the left of the MAC (physical) address of the computer that you want to view into the Remote Desktop program Computer text box.

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Step 6

Click "Connect." Enter your username and password when prompted and click "OK." The remote computer is shown on your screen.

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