Disable Private Wi-Fi Address for Android Devices

To communicate with a Wi-Fi network, a device must identify itself to the network using a unique network address called a Media Access Control (MAC) address. If the device always uses the same Wi-Fi MAC address across all networks, network operators and other network observers can more easily relate that address to the device's network activity and location over time. This allows a kind of user tracking or profiling, and it applies to all devices on all Wi-Fi networks.

To connect to Wi-Fi at UND, users must disable this option. This is only required for UND networks.

  1. Go to the Settings app on the Android device.
  2. Tap on Network & Internet or Connections (this may differ based on the device).
  3. Select Wi-Fi.
  4. Connect to the desired network if not already connected.
  5. Once connected, tap on the network's name to access its options.
  6. Look for an option related to Privacy, MAC, or Advanced options.
  7. Within this menu, you should find the option to use a device MAC or a randomized MAC. Select the option to use the device's MAC address.
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