Based on a given IP is there any possibility to retrieve that IP holder's MAC add? I believe Nessus has something about it in the scans, but I am interested in a concept that could be applied regardless of the target OS [Google gave me some answers, but most of the in the form of source code, in Win for Win].

I have searched AO but the only thing I've found was in relation to local [subnet] computers and their MACs. Is it simply impossible to identify a remote MAC of a router or linux box, let's say? [I've chanced across some code for using the NetBIOS method, though the specifications were not clear whether it would work locelly only].

I was thinking of setting up a small personal server at home [for personal files, backup etc] and just thought that an extra level of security would be to only allow my [or other specific] MACs to connect. But since this is a 'summer project' for me I was thinking of giving a shot to trying to code the thing myself [? maybe ] Anyway, all being done over the Internet, would there be anything out there to help me?

Thank you in advance.