Plugable does not officially support automatic or automated MAC address pass-through functionality from the host computer. As of this writing, the only exception is the UD-7400PD docking station which natively supports this capability and is discussed in more detail here → LINK
How to Approximate MAC Address Pass-Through in Windows
When our docking station products are used within a Windows environment, MAC address pass-through behavior can be approximated, though Plugable does not officially support these solutions. The specific method depends on the Ethernet network chipset used within the product, which is listed in the 'Specifications' tab of the docking station's product page.
For DisplayLink-based Ethernet network adapters, you can manually enter a hexadecimal value in the 'MAC Address' field within the adapter's 'Advanced' settings tab within Windows Device Manager will override the MAC address stored in the Ethernet chipset (in so far as it is presented to the Windows operating system).
For products based on Realtek, Intel, and ASIX Ethernet network chipsets, a virtual MAC address can be manually configured in a similar manner within Device Manager, but the option name will vary. For Intel Ethernet chipsets, the option is called 'Locally Administered Address', and for Realtek Ethernet chipsets, the option is called 'Network Address'.
Manually entering this value overrides the MAC address presented to the Windows operating system but does not change the physical MAC address stored within the dock itself.
Alternative Options for DisplayLink Docks
Synaptics, the creator of DisplayLink technology, offers additional options for configuring a DisplayLink-based MAC address. Some of these options provide a certain level of automation, while others require manual inputs. The available options are outlined within the DisplayLink Corporate Deployment knowledge base → LINK and the article specific to the topic is here → LINK
Because Synaptics develops the DisplayLink technology and software, it is Synaptics that supports these Corporate Deployment options directly, and you should contact DisplayLink directly for further assistance regarding these methods.
Applicable To
- Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
- Plugable docking stations with Realtek, Intel, or ASIX Ethernet chipsets
