Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Ethernet Adaptor (en2) and (en3)-What are they?

Hi,

Does anyone know what "Ethernet Adaptor (en2) and (en3)" are? I don't remember ever seeing this in my Network Port Configurations.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

-Dean

Mac Pro 2.66 / MacBook 2.0, Mac OS X (10.4.11)

Posted on Feb 19, 2008 11:40 PM

Reply
2 replies
Sort By: 

Feb 20, 2008 12:14 AM in response to Imagine

I'm going to guess that you are running Parallels? (If not I have no idea)

If you are they are basically clones of your Ethernet port. En3 is the port windows sees and uses, and En2 is a bridge between that port and the physical port in your computer that OS X uses.

Interesting side effect of it is that Parallels doesn't use the same MAC address as OS X. So if for some reason you MAC is blocked on a network, you can still access the same net work if you boot windows in Parallels. I've been on bandwidth restricted networks and had my MAC address locked before and switching to windows in Parallels always give me access back. Its also kind of amusing because each boot or parallels gives you a new MAC address.
Reply

Feb 20, 2008 12:43 AM in response to IrishPen

You're absolutely right, I am using Parallels. The only thing is that it's affecting Pro Tools and the Ethernet connected C/24 console.

I'll have to uncheck en2 and 3 in Networks in order to continue without problems.

Thank you for the information.

-Dean
Reply

Ethernet Adaptor (en2) and (en3)-What are they?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.