Media Access Control (MAC) is a network communication protocol that manages data transmission on a network. It controls how devices access the shared network medium, ensuring orderly communication. MAC addresses uniquely identify devices on the network, facilitating the exchange of data. MAC frames, containing source and destination addresses, encapsulate data for transmission through the network. NICs (network interface cards) handle MAC communication for wired connections, while WAPs (wireless access points) and Bluetooth adapters enable MAC communication in wireless networks.
