How do i change my MAC code?

Question

Sky Broadband have given me a MAC code, but what do i do with it? Do i call my new isp (NTL) and give it to them?

Answer 1

A little confusion with previous answers...

A MAC code is "Migration Authorisation Code". This code is given to you by your ISP (Internet Service Provider) when you wish to change your ISP to another company. Phone your new provider and give them the MAC code. This gives them permission to transfer your broadband connection to themselves.

A MAC address is "Media Access Control address". Every piece of network hardware (network card, router, etc) is hard coded with a unique serial number. This number is your MAC address and cannot be changed. It can, however, be spoofed with certain modems/routers.

If you wish to change ISP (as seems to be the case), phone your new ISP and give them your MAC code. They should changeover your broadband within a couple of weeks.

By the way... If you are changing to a cable based provider from a BT phone line based provider you do not actually "need" the MAC code. Simply cancel your Sky and sign up for cable. However, should you (or anyone else at your house should you move) wish to return to a BT based provider, they could have huge problems signing up with anyone except Sky. This is because Sky controls the line and no other companies will have permission to take over the connection. You should migrate providers properly now, and avoid potential problems in the future.

Answer 2

Your MAC code is the address of the device in the telephone exchange that you are attached to. As NTL is cable and totally separate system from the BT network they will probably not require it. If you were going to an ISP other than NTL then they would need it so that they could connect you. The MAC code for the network card on your computer is irrelevant.

Answer 3

Have NTL already connected you satisfactorily? Then you don't need to do anything. The MAC is a code which is supposed to provide a seamless transfer from one ISP to another. If your NTL connection isn't yet up and running, then give them the code.

Answer 4

There is a good chance that you will not need this code, as Sky is over a BT line and NTL (Virgin Media) will use a Cable connection. Hence they do not share the BT Exchanges and have no real reason to avoid DSLAM conflicts.

MAC codes are used to help BT switch you over between ISPs without an ISP telling BT off for moving you as you are their customer in case your contract was not finished.

However, if you intend to use your BT line later with another ISP, you will need that MAC code as the switch will keep you directed to SKY.

Answer 5

Yes. A MAC code is an ID for all networking hardware, which cannot be changed.

As you have the MAC code, you can now call NTL (Virgin Media) and give them the MAC code.

Answer 6

Very Simply

The MAC Code Sky have given you STANDS for

Migration Authorisation Code

you NEW service provider will need this code to actviate your service.

Answer 7

MAC.

Is a term used for the Unique code all network devices have. this code is embedded into your Pc's network card and your Router.

If your new ISP needs your mac address you should forward this code to them.

NTL are a networked based ISP and not usually dial up, open a dos prompt on your PC and type IPCONFIG/ALL this will show your PC's MAC address it's also known as the physical address.

Answer 8

your new Isp cannot connect you without the MAC so you should contact then with it immediately

Answer 9

It will enable a smooth transfer of you present ISP provider to your new one without any glitches. (Hopefully)