What is MAC NameServer?

MAC NameServer

MAC NameServer is a handy tool designed to make mapping MAC addresses to IP addresses super easy. If you've ever needed to find out which MAC address belongs to which IP, this app has got you covered!

How MAC NameServer Works

First off, MAC NameServer regularly scans the subnet it’s connected to and keeps track of the corresponding MAC addresses. It saves this info in a file similar to LMHOSTS, allowing your local machine to quickly retrieve the right IP address for any MAC address.

Resource Use

Now, keep in mind that running MAC NameServer does use some processor time and network bandwidth. Plus, it takes up space on your hard drive even when it’s not active. So, if you're tight on resources, that’s something to consider.

Compatibility Limitations

This software isn’t compatible with Linux, Mono, Macintosh systems, iPhones, or Google Phones. It specifically uses the "SendARP" API available only in Windows. Also worth noting is that MAC NameServer can only operate within the local subnet—it can't grab MAC addresses across routers.

IP Address Changes and Network Scanning

The app doesn’t react instantly when there are changes in IP addresses. Instead of being super quick about it, MAC NameServer slowly scans the network and will only spot new IPs when it finds new ARP entries.

A Word of Caution

If you're using MAC NameServer, just be aware that it might raise some eyebrows with your network administrator since it actively scans the network. Depending on your setup, it could be flagged as an intrusion or fill up your ARP cache.

User Interface Notes

You won’t find a fancy or responsive user interface here! The scanning process doesn’t run on a background thread either—so expect some delays while waiting for ARP responses. That said, other programs shouldn’t become unresponsive because of this.

Download MAC NameServer!

How Download Works

Go to the Softpas website, press the 'Downloads' button, and pick the app you want to download and install—easy and fast!