Which filtering method uses the physical address to control device access to a network?

The filtering method that utilizes the physical address of a device to manage access to a network is MAC address filtering. Each device on a network is assigned a unique Media Access Control (MAC) address, which serves as its identifier at the data link layer of the network model. By implementing MAC address filtering, network administrators can allow or deny network access based on these unique physical addresses.

When a device attempts to connect to a network, the network equipment (such as a router or switch) checks the device's MAC address against a list of approved or disallowed addresses. If the device's MAC address is on the allowed list, it will be permitted access to the network; if not, access will be denied. This method offers a level of control that is specific to individual devices, making it effective for securing networks in certain environments.

While IP address filtering, subnet filtering, and protocol filtering are methods of managing network traffic based on logical addressing or protocol types, it is MAC address filtering that specifically focuses on the physical characteristics of network devices for access control.