The new MAC randomization algorithm applies to network connectivity and is now used for all communications. This problem can certainly be looked at from different angles (MAC Address from Google or Apple’s perspective provides different tracking options versus a typical enterprise or even a home user). The intent from device manufacturers like Google and Apple is to “reduce a privacy risk” associated with an ability to track a device from a network usage or location perspective using a device unique MAC address.
Let’s find out what these changes entail for enterprises and networking vendors. The new shift in the mobile device industry is to randomize MAC addresses not only during the network discovery phase, but also during association phase. This however is changing with the upcoming release of iOS 14 / WatchOS 7, Android 10+, and even a few recent versions of Windows 10. During association, a device would have used its “real” hardware MAC address.
It has existed for several years and involved randomizing client MAC addresses when sending Probe Requests to prevent location tracking of devices that are not associated to the network.
MAC Randomization is not a new term in the network industry.
