How to Get the MAC Address of a Recorder Using a Mac

If you need to reset your recorder's password, you may be asked to provide its Recovery Code (also known as 'MAC Address'). If you cannot access the recorder's menu, you can use a Mac to find the recorder's MAC address by scanning your local network using a network scanning application such as LanScan

Disclaimer: This guide uses LanScan as an example because it is a commonly available network scanning app for macOS. It is not developed, endorsed, or supported by Swann. You may use any similar network scanning application you prefer. Any third-party software is installed and used at your own discretion and risk.

Things to Know Before You Start

• Your Mac and recorder must be connected to the same local network (same router).
• Download and install a network scanning application (this guide uses LanScan as an example).
• Your recorder must be powered on and connected to the network.
• This guide is intended for Swann Security recorders, but the same steps may also help identify older network-connected Swann recorders.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Download and install a network scanning application on your Mac. This guide uses LanScan as an example.
2. Open the application, then click the Play (▶) button in the upper-right corner to scan all devices connected to your network.
3. Look for a device that:
   • Shows Swann as the device name, or
   • Has a MAC address beginning with BC:51:FE

Once you find your recorder, make a note of its complete MAC address. You can use it when requesting a password reset.

Why It Matters

The MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to your recorder. If you've forgotten your recorder password, you may use this information to reset your recorder's password.

Related Scenarios or Questions

• I can't find my recorder in the scan results.
  Make sure your Mac and recorder are connected to the same router, and that the recorder is powered on.
• The device name isn't Swann.
  Check the MAC address instead. Many Swann recorders use a MAC address that starts with BC:51:FE
• Can I use a different network scanning app?
  Yes. Any network scanner that displays the MAC addresses of devices on your local network should work.
• Can I find the MAC address without a Mac?
  Yes. You can also obtain it through your router. See How to Get the MAC Address of Your Recorder Using Your Router

Summary & Next Steps

A network scanning app is a quick way to find your recorder's MAC address when you can't access the recorder's menu. After obtaining the MAC address, continue with the password reset guide or use another supported method, such as retrieving it from your router.