Buzz
If you're a regular Windows user, Wake-on-LAN may not seem useful. But that's a thing of the past.
Nowadays, configuring Wake-on-LAN on Windows offers users more than ever. So, what is Wake-on-LAN? How do you set up Wake-On-LAN on Windows 10? Keep reading the following article by Mytour for more information.
What is Wake-On-LAN?
Wake-on-LAN is a network standard. When implemented, it allows for remote computer boot-up. It also encompasses an additional standard known as Wake-on-Wireless-LAN (WoWLAN).
To make Wake-on-LAN work, you need:
1. Your computer must be connected to a power source.
2. The computer motherboard must be compatible with ATX. Most modern motherboards today meet this requirement.
3. The computer network card (Ethernet or wireless) needs to have WoL enabled. WoL is supported by most devices.
As a protocol, Wake-on-LAN is widely used in the computer world. Due to hardware-level support, WoL functions on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers without any issues.
Windows users can wake their devices from any default state such as hibernate, sleep, or even when the machine is completely shut down.
How does Wake-On-LAN work?
Wake-on-LAN relies on 'magic packet' transmissions. Essentially, when the network card detects such a packet, it signals the computer to power up autonomously.
That's why your computer needs to be connected to a power source even when shut down. The network card facilitates WoL by drawing a minimal amount of power for approximately 24 hours while scanning for magic packets.
But what's actually happening?
The magic packet is dispatched from a server. This server can encompass dedicated software, a router, a website, a computer, a mobile device, a smart TV, or other Internet of Things devices.
The server transmits the packet across the entire network. This packet contains crucial information, including network address details, subnet particulars, and the MAC address of the computer you wish to awaken.
Once all this information amalgamates into a singular packet, it's termed as the wake-up frame. The network card continues scanning for this frame. If the MAC address is repeated 16 times within the packet, the computer recognizes it as the wake-up frame.
Why is Wake-On-LAN beneficial?
So now you know what Wake-on-LAN is and how it works. The question here is why is Wake-On-LAN useful?
- Power up your computer from anywhere:
Users can power up their computers from anywhere using Wake-On-LAN.
To use your computer remotely, you'll need to install a remote application that supports Wake-on-LAN. Google's Chrome Remote Desktop app isn't widely known, so you might opt for TeamViewer instead.
Note: For computers utilizing WoL technology to boot from a fully powered-off state, the BIOS of that computer must support Wakeup-on-PME (Power Management Event).
- For Cable Cutters:
If you've embraced cord cutting, you can start using various applications and services.
Many of these applications and services must be mentioned, such as smart TVs, Nvidia Shield streaming devices, and the Kodi home theater app, all meeting the requirements for Wake-on-LAN.
For instance, if you're using an old laptop as a Plex server and for recording reality shows or locally stored movies, you can wake it up on demand when you want to watch content, rather than leaving it running 24/7.
Setting up Wake-On-LAN on Windows 10
To activate Wake-on-LAN on Windows 10, you open Device Manager. To do this, you right-click on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of the Taskbar, select Device Manager, or alternatively, you can type Device Manager into the Search box on the Start Menu.
Then, scroll down the list of devices until you find Network adapters. Click on it to expand the menu.
The next step now is to identify your network card's location. If you're unsure which network card it is, you can press the Windows key and type System Information into the Search box. Open the application and access System Summary =>Components =>Network =>Adaptor.
Returning to the Device Manager window, right-click on your network card and select Properties. In the Properties window, click on the Advanced tab.
Scroll down the list until you find Wake-on-LAN. This name may vary on different devices. If you don't see Wake-on-LAN, you can search for Wake on magic packet, remote wake-up, power on by LAN, power up by LAN, resume by LAN, or resume on LAN. Once found, switch these settings to Enabled.
Next, click on tab Power Management. Ensure you've checked both boxes next to Allow this device to wake the computer and Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer.
Next, click on OK.
Activating Wake-On-LAN in BIOS
BIOS menus on different computers vary, so Mytour can't provide precise instructions on accessing BIOS on different devices.
In summary, you'll need to press any key during the computer startup process. It's typically Esc, Delete, or F1.
In the BIOS menu, you locate the Power tab, then scroll down until you find the Wake-on-LAN item. Ensure it's enabled and save your changes.
Note: This tab is also referred to as Power Management, and you may find power settings under the Advanced Settings tab (or a similar tab).
Security of Wake-On-LAN
Magic packets are sent through OSI Layer-2. In practice, this means anyone on the same network as you can also use WoL to start your computer.
In a home environment, this is not significant, but on a public network, it's a major concern.
In theory, WoL only allows users to power on a computer. It doesn't bypass security checks, password screens, or other security measures. Additionally, WoL doesn't allow the computer to shut down again.
However, there are cases where attackers use a combination of DHCP and PXE servers to boot computers with their boot image. This allows them to access any unprotected drives on the local network.
So Mytour has just explained to you what Wake-on-LAN is and how to set up Wake-on-LAN on Windows 10. Hopefully, this article provides you with useful information. Additionally, you can learn more about 10 things to know when using Windows 10 and don't forget to share your opinions and ratings with Mytour.
