realtek rtl8723de 802.11b/g/n pcie adapter network address not present??

[JHMyint]

Hi all, so recently I discovered that there is no way to change my network address on my laptop since there is no option to do that on my network adapter. I also cannot use the 'use random hardware address' feature. Is there any way to be able to change my network (MAC) address on my laptop? Or will I have to change the wifi card. If so, which wifi card would be compatible with my system? (AMD Ryzen 5 3500u cpu)

[Betty0610 · Accepted solution]

@JHMyint

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

May I know the reason of you wanting to change the address? If you wish to change the Wi-Fi adapter, use this guide: http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c06248787

Let me know if this helps.

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the "Accept as solution" button, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!

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[JHMyint]

I figured out how to change the address myself through cmd prompt and there is also a software that allows me to do so. The reason being that I use my laptop often in public areas, and I just have a bit more peace of mind knowing that my device's original address isn't being tracked by public wifi (even though I never do anything sensitive in public such as online banking or checking important online documents)

[Riddle_Decipher]

@JHMyint I understand, better safe than sorry, I respect that!

That said, here's an easier way of doing the same:

There's two controls for using random hardware addresses—one is for all Wi-Fi networks and the other is for the specific Wi-Fi network you choose. When you turn it on for all networks, random hardware addresses are used while your PC scans for networks and connects to any network. When it's turned on for a specific network you choose, random hardware addresses are used the next time you connect to that network.

• Use random hardware addresses for all networks:

  • Select the Start  button, then select Settings  > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi .

  • Turn on Use random hardware addresses.

• Use random hardware addresses for a specific network:

  • Select the Start  button, then select Settings  > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi  > Manage known networks.

  • Choose a network, then select Properties and choose the setting you want under Use random hardware addresses for this network.

Why use random hardware addresses?

When you're not connected to Wi-Fi, your PC sends a signal to look for Wi-Fi networks in the area to help you get connected. The signal contains the unique physical hardware (MAC) address for your device. Some places, for example shopping malls, stores, or other public areas, might use this unique address to track your movement in that area. If your Wi-Fi hardware supports it, you can turn on random hardware addresses to make it harder for people to track you when your PC scans for networks and connects.

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