Wake-on-LAN (Local Network Only)
Wake-on-LAN (WOL) allows a computer to be powered on from another device inside the same local network (LAN) by sending a special network packet.
This guide explains what Wake-on-LAN is, how it works locally, and its strict technical limitations, before guiding you through the required configuration steps.
⚠️ Critical limitations (read first)
Wake-on-LAN works only with wired Ethernet connections.
It does NOT reliably work with:
- Wi-Fi connections
- Wireless-only devices
- Systems not connected to Ethernet
For Wake-on-LAN to work correctly:
- The computer must be connected via Ethernet
- The network interface must remain powered while the computer is off
- The device should be connected to power (recommended)
If the device uses Wi-Fi only, Wake-on-LAN will not work.
What is Wake-on-LAN?
Wake-on-LAN is a technology that allows a computer to be powered on by sending a special magic packet over the local network.
The magic packet is addressed to the computer’s MAC address, not its IP address.
Key characteristics:
- The computer is powered off or suspended
- The Ethernet network card remains partially powered
- A magic packet triggers the power-on event
What Wake-on-LAN depends on
Wake-on-LAN requires all of the following:
- Wired Ethernet connection
- Network card that supports Wake-on-LAN
- BIOS/UEFI support enabled
- Operating system support enabled
- Correct power management settings
If any of these requirements are missing, Wake-on-LAN will not work.
Important: configuration order
Wake-on-LAN must be configured in the correct order.
You cannot skip the firmware configuration step.
Correct order:
- BIOS / UEFI configuration (hardware level, required)
- Operating system configuration (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- Testing and verification
Step 1: BIOS / UEFI configuration (required)
Wake-on-LAN must be enabled at the firmware level before it can work in any operating system.
This step applies to all systems, regardless of Windows, macOS, or Linux.
→ Enable Wake-on-LAN in BIOS / UEFI
Do not continue until this step is completed.
Step 2: Operating system configuration
After Wake-on-LAN is enabled in BIOS / UEFI, continue with the configuration for your operating system: