The MAC Address is assigned by which component?

The MAC address, or Media Access Control address, is a unique identifier assigned to the network interface controller (NIC) of a computer or device. This address is hardwired into the NIC by the manufacturer, making it unique to each network device. The purpose of the MAC address is to serve as a network-level address that allows devices on a local area network (LAN) to communicate with one another and send data packets over the network.

Because the MAC address is integral to the hardware of the NIC, it is established during the manufacturing process and is usually not altered by the end user or the operating system. This ensures that each device can be distinctly recognized and managed on a network. The fact that manufacturers assign these addresses also contributes to their uniqueness, as they follow specific formatting and numbering schemes to avoid duplication.

In contrast, the other options do not correctly associate with the assignment of a MAC address. An operating system does not assign a MAC address; rather, it utilizes the NIC's predefined address for network communications. Network cables do not play a role in creating or assigning MAC addresses since they are simply the medium through which network signals are transmitted. Lastly, while a user can configure certain network settings, altering the MAC address itself typically requires specific software or firmware