MAC Codes - Same number?

Question

Ive just been contacted by my new,soon to be ISP asking for my MAC Code. This is the second time I have given it to them,because the first one expired after 30 days. On getting the new one I find its the same number so why is it they only last for 30 days. I was expecting a different No.

The reason for the delay is, Im transfering to Talk Talk. Say no more

Answer 1

Your MAC code is static and doesn't change and they don't give it to you. You might be getting confused with an IP number if you haven't asked for a static address. The MAC code and your Ethernet address never change for a computer.

Your MAC code is your media access code. It is like the IMEI codes you have for a mobile phone.

Your IP number is like a phone number and if you are able to get a new one after 30 days it is like changing your phone number every month. Sites use an IP number to track your activity and send a cookie to your computer so they know it is you visiting again.

By generating a new IP code each month you are cutting down the chances of being monitored by sites. To them it will appear as if you are a new visitor.

or do you mean

Migration Authorisation Code?? Which gives one ISP to take over your service from another ISP. They typically last 30 days because that is the billing period.

If you moved from BT to Telewest for example and you didn't complete the transfer properly then BT would re-bill you not Telewest after the 30 days. Then you would need a new MAC code to move. Look at it like a reference number or customer number with an offer attached. If you don't take up the offer they cancel it and set up a new offer.

Answer 2

There is no reason why it should take 30 days to do that, shake you ISPs up.
How to use your MAC code to switch on Top 10 Broadband
Find a better broadband deal and switch at Top 10 Broadband
Sign up online with your chosen broadband provider and enter your MAC code when requested
Your new broadband should be activated within 6-10 days
MAC is an acronym of Migration Authorisation Code and is an individual 17-18 digit alphanumeric number. A MAC code can be issued by a broadband provider to help you switch to another supplier (usually within 6 to 10 days). When you sign up with your new broadband provider, your MAC code will have essential information they need to switch your broadband supply over to them (e.g. details of your phone exchange, type of line etc.)
What does a MAC code look like?
Each MAC code is an individual combination of letters and numbers – here are some example formats of what your MAC code will look like:
BBIP12345678/9AB12
How do you get your MAC code?
Simply phone your current broadband provider (see list below) and ask them for you MAC code to move your broadband. This should be provided within 5 days. Make sure you do not cancel your contract when you receive your MAC code as it may take 2 weeks before you are connected with your new broadband provider.

Answer 3

your MAC Code... or migration authorisation code is the code used for your ISPs to keep in contact with each other, ensuring that you aren't cut off during the switchover of your broadband providor, and between the 2 ISPs, they arrange a suitable date for the old one to cut off, and the new one to connect, with immediate effect.

i.e. AOL may terminate the connection at 23:59 on 24/05/07 and Sky Surf may connect at 00:00 on 25/05/07

and this is the right answer because i have just got my MAC code today from ZEN internet (the UKs best business broadband providor), and they give the lecture and details on it. thanks for the 10 points. :-)

Answer 4

They can generate the numbers to how they want, as long as its on their system as a valid MAC, the new ISP will query the MAC with old ISP, if valid, they just grab your account details

Answer 5

Kind of confusing question, if you mean a new MAC address then no, if you are using the same hardware.