MAC Address Filtering

There is often a need to restrict what devices can connect to a network.  One of the easiest ways to do this is by MAC address.  This allows you to block a device, regardless of the IP address it has assigned.  On a WatchGuard firewall, you can restrict on both physical connections as well as wireless connections managed on the firewall.

Restricting by MAC Address on Physical Port

If you would like to restrict by MAC address on a physical interface, open Network > Configuration in Policy Manager.  Next, open the physical interface you would like to control.

Select the MAC Accesss Control tab at the top.  Make sure to check the box for Restrict access by MAC address, then click Add.

Interface Settings MAC Access Control

Input the MAC address and device name for easy identification.

Input MAC address and Name

Restricting by MAC Address through Gateway Wireless Controller

If you are using Gateway Wireless Controller, you can deny access by MAC address through your SSIDs as well.  First, click Settings inside of the Gateway Wireless Controller window.

Gateway Wireless Controller Settings button

Next, select the MAC Access Control tab.  You can input the MAC addresses you wish to restrict in the Denied MAC Addresses list.

Settings for MAC Access Control Tab

Once you have the list updated, open your SSID.  Check the box for Use the MAC Access Control List, and select the Denied MAC Addresses option.

selected Denied MAC Addresses button in Add SSID section

Restricting by MAC Address through On-Box Wireless

If you have a T- series firewall with built-in wireless, you can restrict by MAC address as well.  Select Network > Wireless.  Click Configure next to the Access Point you want to apply changes to. 

Red highlight around Configure button for Access Point you want to apply changes

Select the MAC Access Control tab.  Check the box for Restrict Access by MAC address, and input your list of devices.

Wireless Access Point 1 Configuration restrict access input list