Turning on Wake on LAN (WoL) in Windows 10 allows you to power up your computer remotely using a network signal. This feature is super handy if you want to wake up your machine from another room or even another city. The process involves changing settings both in your BIOS and your operating system. Let’s dive in!
How to Turn on Wake on LAN in Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk through the steps to enable Wake on LAN on your Windows 10 machine. This tutorial will guide you through setting up your computer’s BIOS and configuring the network adapter settings within Windows.
Step 1: Access BIOS/UEFI Settings
First, restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing a specific key during boot, usually F2, Delete, or Esc.
Entering the BIOS might feel like entering a secret world of computer settings. Once inside, look for categories like "Power Management" or "Advanced Settings". You’ll be looking for a setting related to Wake on LAN or WoL. Enable this setting and save your changes before exiting.
Step 2: Open Device Manager
Once Windows 10 is up and running again, open the Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting Device Manager.
The Device Manager is your control hub for all hardware devices connected to your computer. In this case, you’re looking for your network adapter. This is the piece of hardware that will listen for that magical packet to wake your computer.
Step 3: Locate Network Adapter
In Device Manager, find your network adapter under the "Network Adapters" section and right-click on it. Select "Properties".
Finding your network adapter is like finding the right key on a keyring. Once you’ve located it, you can adjust the settings to enable Wake on LAN.
Step 4: Enable Wake on LAN Settings
In the network adapter properties, go to the "Power Management" tab. Check the boxes for "Allow this device to wake the computer" and "Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer".
These settings make sure your network adapter is always on the lookout for that specific signal to wake up. The "magic packet" is the secret knock that tells your computer to power up.
Step 5: Configure Advanced Settings
Still, in the network adapter properties, head to the "Advanced" tab. Look for options like "Wake on Magic Packet" or "Wake on Pattern Match" and set them to "Enabled".
Advanced settings are like the fine-tuning knobs on a radio, ensuring your computer listens for the right signal to wake up. Make sure to apply your changes before closing all the windows.
After completing these steps, your computer should be set to wake up when it receives a magic packet over the network.
Tips for Turning on Wake on LAN in Windows 10
- Check your BIOS version: Ensure your BIOS or UEFI version supports Wake on LAN. You might need an update.
- Use a wired connection: WoL typically works only with wired Ethernet connections, not Wi-Fi.
- Router settings: Ensure your router is configured to forward WoL packets to your computer.
- Keep your PC plugged in: WoL won’t work if your computer is unplugged from power.
- Third-party tools: Consider using third-party apps to send WoL packets from your smartphone or another computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wake on LAN?
Wake on LAN (WoL) is a feature that allows a computer to be turned on or awakened by a network message.
Does Wake on LAN work over Wi-Fi?
Generally, WoL works best over a wired Ethernet connection. Some newer network adapters may support WoL over Wi-Fi, but it’s less common.
What is a magic packet?
A magic packet is a specific type of network packet that includes the MAC address of the device to be awakened. It’s like a secret handshake for your network adapter.
Why is Wake on LAN not working?
Common issues include incorrect BIOS settings, the computer being unplugged, or network adapter settings not being configured correctly. Double-check all steps.
Can I use WoL from outside my home network?
Yes, but you will need to configure your router to allow WoL packets through and possibly set up port forwarding.
Summary
- Restart computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Open Device Manager in Windows 10.
- Find and right-click your network adapter, then select Properties.
- Enable relevant settings in the Power Management tab.
- Configure additional settings in the Advanced tab.
Conclusion
Turning on Wake on LAN in Windows 10 might seem a bit like navigating a maze at first, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you know the steps. This powerful feature can save you loads of time and effort, especially if you need to access your computer remotely. Remember to double-check all your settings if things don’t work right away, and don’t hesitate to consult your motherboard or network adapter’s documentation for more specific instructions.
Feel free to explore additional resources and tools that can complement WoL. Some smartphone apps can send magic packets, making it even easier to wake your computer from anywhere. Turn on Wake on LAN in Windows 10 and transform how you interact with your PC today!
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.