[brugidou]

Using a deterministic ID for machines is definitely the way to go.

We actually studied this for a while and MAC address is a pretty universal ID that works virtually anywhere. We use the smallest physical non-zero MAC address in case of multiple NICs. We considered using chassis or baseboard serial numbers but it gets too vendor specific.

[ghshephard]

The problem you run into with using the MAC address is what happens when you swap out the NIC?

[lugg]

You use the new one? Either that or dont. Doesn't really matter that should all be automated shouldn't it?