Setting up Wake-on-LAN (WoL) on Windows 10 allows you to remotely power on your computer using a magic packet. This is handy for remote access when you’re away from your machine but need to access its resources. Follow these steps to configure WoL on Windows 10 and you’ll be up and running in no time.
Step-by-Step Tutorial for Sending Wake on LAN Packet in Windows 10
This tutorial will guide you through enabling Wake-on-LAN (WoL) on a Windows 10 machine and how to send a WoL packet to wake the computer remotely.
Step 1: Enable Wake-on-LAN in BIOS/UEFI
Ensure that Wake-on-LAN is enabled in the BIOS or UEFI settings of your computer.
To get into BIOS/UEFI, restart your computer and press the designated key (usually F2, F10, or Delete) to enter the BIOS/UEFI menu. Navigate to the Power Management settings and find the option to enable Wake-on-LAN. Save your changes and exit.
Step 2: Enable Wake-on-LAN in Device Manager
Open Device Manager and enable the Wake-on-LAN feature for the network adapter.
Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager. Find your network adapter under "Network adapters," right-click it, and choose "Properties." Go to the "Power Management" tab and check the boxes for "Allow this device to wake the computer" and "Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer."
Step 3: Configure Network Adapter Settings
Adjust the network adapter settings to support Wake-on-LAN.
In the Device Manager, go back to the "Advanced" tab under the network adapter properties. Scroll down to find settings such as "Wake on Magic Packet" and ensure they are enabled. This is essential for receiving the magic packet that wakes the computer.
Step 4: Obtain the MAC Address
Retrieve the MAC address of the network adapter you want to wake.
Open Command Prompt by pressing Windows key + R, typing "cmd," and hitting Enter. Type ipconfig /all
and press Enter. Look for the "Physical Address" under your network adapter—this is your MAC address. Note it down, as you’ll need it to send the magic packet.
Step 5: Send the Wake-on-LAN Packet
Use a third-party tool to send the WoL magic packet to your computer.
There are several tools available online to send WoL packets. One popular option is the "Wake On Lan" tool by Depicus. Enter the MAC address you noted earlier, your network’s broadcast IP address, and send the packet. Your computer should wake up if everything is set up correctly.
After completing these steps, your computer should wake when it receives a magic packet. This setup is beneficial for accessing your system remotely without needing it to be powered on all the time.
Tips for Sending Wake on LAN Packet in Windows 10
- Make sure your computer is connected via Ethernet, as WoL often doesn’t work over Wi-Fi.
- Ensure your router supports forwarding WoL packets.
- Test the setup while you’re on the same network before trying remote wake-ups.
- Keep your BIOS/UEFI and network adapter drivers up-to-date for reliability.
- Check your firewall settings and ensure WoL packets are allowed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Wake-on-LAN over Wi-Fi?
WoL typically works over Ethernet. Some modern Wi-Fi adapters may support it, but it’s less reliable.
Do I need to leave my computer plugged in?
Yes, the computer needs to be plugged in and on a network, even if it’s powered off.
Will my computer wake up from hibernation?
WoL usually works from sleep, not hibernation. Ensure your computer is in the correct state.
Why isn’t my computer waking up?
Double-check your BIOS/UEFI settings, network adapter settings in Windows, and ensure the correct MAC address is used.
Is Wake-on-LAN secure?
WoL is not inherently secure, as it’s designed for convenience. Consider additional security measures like VPNs.
Summary
- Enable Wake-on-LAN in BIOS/UEFI.
- Enable Wake-on-LAN in Device Manager.
- Configure network adapter settings.
- Obtain the MAC address.
- Send the Wake-on-LAN packet.
Conclusion
Setting up Wake-on-LAN on your Windows 10 machine can be a game-changer for managing your computer remotely. Whether you need to access files, run programs, or perform updates while you’re away from home, WoL makes it possible. Following the steps outlined, you should now be able to reliably send a magic packet and wake your computer remotely.
Remember, this setup can be finicky. Always double-check your settings if something isn’t working. And, if you’re planning to use WoL over the internet, make sure your network is configured correctly to forward WoL packets. With a bit of tweaking, you’ll have a seamless remote access solution that’s both convenient and practical.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.