Liaison statement
Liaison Statement to IETF MADINAS

Dear IETF MADINAS Chairs,

The WBA's Wi-Fi Device Identification project would like to share with you the results of their
investigation into the problems of device and user identification posed when the MAC address is
no longer used as an Identifier – find the document attached to this message, liaised with IETF
MADINAS.

The whitepaper outlines the following:

• The functions for which MACs have been used across various Use-Cases;
• Requirements for replacement identifiers in different types of network;
• Mechanisms that may be used in place of MAC addresses in many instances;
• How various mechanisms apply to use-cases.

The purpose of the project was to identify and recommend Wi-Fi Device Identification mechanisms
that can be used to replace the MAC address. These uses focus on existing and future standards
to provide privacy. Where appropriate, we contributed information so that those creating the
standards can understand the requirements that WBA members have for identifying users and
devices. In addition, the paper outlines mechanisms that WBA members may use to obtain the
identity of devices.

There was no intention on the part of this project to create new or rival standards where adequate
ones already exist or where we can assist with making them adequate. Within the paper we
present and promote best practice in the use of existing standards whilst noting any limitations.
The WBA will be happy to clarify and discuss any of the topics within the paper. The WBA further
thanks the IETF MADINAS for its previous liaisons and looks forward to future co-operation.

For more information, please contact the WBA PMO (pmo@wballiance.com).

Thank you in advance,
The WBA Wi-Fi Devices Identification Group