So, why 02 , 06 , 0A , or 0E ? These specific patterns ensure that the U/L bit is correctly set to 1, designating the address as locally administered. For a unicast address (which is the standard for a single network interface card), the least significant bit (the I/G bit) must be zero. The valid first octets that satisfy the "locally administered unicast" condition are therefore even numbers like 02 , 06 , 0A , and 0E. This strict validation is enforced by both the Windows OS and many network drivers to prevent MAC address conflicts on local networks. The widespread 02 workaround you see is simply the most minimal valid change one can make from the typical 00` first octet often seen in factory MAC addresses.
Some wireless drivers hide the "Network Address" option. You can force it via Registry: So, why 02 , 06 , 0A , or 0E
For wireless adapters, Microsoft implemented a that prevents custom MAC addresses from taking effect if the first octet does not follow the valid patterns. Essentially, the operating system will silently override any invalid value and revert to the original, factory-assigned MAC address (BIA). The valid first octets that satisfy the "locally