How to Get the MAC Address of a Recorder Using an Android Device
DISCLAIMER: The recommended app is not connected to Swann in any way. You are free to use any device detecting (within the network) app that you prefer.
This guide helps you find your recorder's MAC address using a third-party app like Network Analyzer, so you can reset a forgotten password.
Before you begin:
- Connect the recorder to the router using an Ethernet cable.
- Connect your Android phone to the same router.
Choose Your Starting Point
Select the scenario that best matches your situation—jump right to that section:
1. Install Network Analyzer
-
Download the legacy version of Network Analyzer (Play Store no longer supports MAC visibility on Android 10+).
-
Sideload the APK.
- Why this helps? Newer versions hide MACs due to Android privacy rules.
-
If it fails: Enable “Allow from this source” or use an alternate LAN‑scan app.
- How to install APK?—check this article from How-To Geek.
DID YOU KNOW? Due to some changes made by Google since Android 10, the Play store version of this app can't show the MAC address of the devices.
2. Find My Swann Recorder
Tap and wait until complete.
Identify your Swann recorder—Starts with BC:51:FE or, on older models, EC:71:DB.
Write down its MAC Address somewhere as you will use it later, then proceed to How to Enter the Recovery Code on Your Swann Security Recorder to reset its password.
Why this helps? These prefixes are unique to Swann hardware—ensures you grab the correct device.
3. Recorder Not Visible in the App
- Ensure both recorder and Android device are on the same router/subnet.
- Check if the Ethernet cable is plugged in.
- Reboot your router first, then your recorder, and try again.
Summary & Next Steps
- Installed a compatible Network Analyzer app.
- Scanned your network and located the correct Swann MAC.
- Used the MAC to reset your recorder’s password via the Swann login “Forgot Password” option.
If steps didn’t help:
- Try alternative LAN-scan tools; or
- Use other methods of getting the MAC Address or resetting the password.
Once you have the Recovery Code, go to this article to learn how to use it and reset the recorder's password.