Adds, moves, and changes (MAC) describes work that adds to, relocates, or modifies existing telecommunications, network, or cabling infrastructure. It can mean a logical configuration update, a physical cabling task, or both; the precise scope depends on the organization, contract, and system.
What do add, move, and change mean?
The terms describe common kinds of work on infrastructure already in place. They are practical categories, not a universal formal taxonomy.
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- Add: introduce a connection, endpoint, or capacity—for example, connecting a new device to an existing network.
- Move: relocate a user, device, or connection, such as moving a workstation to another office location.
- Change: modify an existing configuration or physical connection, such as updating network settings or re-terminating a cable.
A MAC request is a request to carry out one or more of these tasks. In a particular organization, it may be submitted through an IT service desk, a telecom provider, or an onsite cabling contractor; the term itself does not establish who is responsible.
Can MAC work be logical or physical?
Yes. A logical change alters how a network or service is configured without necessarily moving a cable. A physical change involves connections or infrastructure, such as patching, relocating a cable, or re-terminating it. Some requests require both.
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For example, Cisco explains that VLANs can simplify some network moves by avoiding recabling and addressing changes. That does not mean a VLAN eliminates physical work in every move: the result depends on the existing design and the requested change. A structured-cabling service may instead involve cleanup, re-termination, refreshed labels, and updated documentation.
What happens during a network MAC request?
There is no single required workflow. The responsible team needs to establish what is changing, whether the work is logical or physical, and what it could affect. A practical request and execution plan should address:
- Define the change: identify the affected user, device, connection, location, or configuration, and the intended result.
- Check the infrastructure: determine whether existing network configuration can support the request or whether cabling, patching, or other physical work is needed.
- Plan service continuity: identify possible interruption and arrange the sequence or work window accordingly. TRAI’s 2020 building ICT monograph says designs should anticipate future changes and enable them with least or no service interruption.
- Make and verify the change: check that the affected connection or service works as intended. The appropriate level of cable testing depends on the task and applicable requirements.
- Update records: revise relevant port, cable, patching, or configuration documentation so it reflects the completed work.
This is a useful planning outline, not a universal contractual procedure or service-level commitment.
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A change can interrupt a connection or service if it is sequenced poorly or affects infrastructure other users rely on. TRAI’s guidance emphasizes designing building networks to accommodate future changes with minimal or no interruption; it does not promise that every individual MAC task can be completed without downtime.
Accurate records help technicians understand what a cable or port serves before making another change. The Georgia telecommunications design manual describes documenting cables, termination hardware, patching and cross-connects, pathways, telecom closets, and related spaces, and calls for as-built drawings to be updated as changes occur. That manual is government design guidance published in 2003, not a universal current legal requirement. For physical cabling work, labels and updated drawings can help keep records aligned with the installation.
Who handles MAC work?
Responsibility depends on the environment and the agreed scope. An organization’s IT team may handle configuration changes; a telecom provider may manage work within its service; and a cabling contractor may perform physical installation or remediation. These roles can overlap. Check the relevant contract or internal process to learn what is included, who approves the work, and whether testing or documentation is part of the service.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you confirm before requesting a change?
- What exact device, connection, service, or location is affected?
- Is the request a configuration update, physical cabling work, or a combination?
- Could the change interrupt service, and is a scheduled window needed?
- Who is responsible for the work under the organization’s process or contract?
- What verification is appropriate, and which records need updating?
Testing tools serve different purposes: verification checks basic connectivity, while qualification and certification address other levels of cable assessment. A 2005 Fluke Networks guide presents verification tools as a first line for basic cabling changes, but it does not establish current product recommendations or acceptance standards. Follow the requirements applicable to the installation.
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