Enabling Wake on LAN (WoL) on Windows 11 can be a handy feature if you need to remotely power up your computer. Here’s a quick guide to set it up: access your computer’s BIOS, enable the Wake on LAN feature, then configure the setting within Windows Device Manager. This setup allows your computer to be awakened from sleep or powered off state via a network message.
Enabling Wake on LAN Windows 11
Enabling Wake on LAN will allow you to turn on your Windows 11 PC remotely over a network. Follow these steps to get everything configured.
Step 1: Enter BIOS/UEFI settings
Restart your computer and press the key (often F2, F10, F12, Delete) to enter BIOS/UEFI settings.
In most computers, pressing F2 or Delete right after hitting the power button will take you to the BIOS/UEFI menu. Look for on-screen instructions which often flash for a brief moment.
Step 2: Enable Wake on LAN in BIOS/UEFI
Navigate to the Power Management or Advanced menu, then enable the Wake on LAN setting.
Depending on your BIOS/UEFI version, the exact location might differ. Look for options like “Wake on LAN,” “Power On By LAN,” or similar terms. Enable it and save changes before exiting.
Step 3: Boot into Windows 11
Allow your computer to boot normally into Windows 11.
After making changes in BIOS/UEFI, your computer will restart. Let it load Windows 11 fully so you can continue with the next steps.
Step 4: Open Device Manager
Press Win + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
Device Manager is where you manage hardware settings. Accessing it is the next step in configuring WoL in Windows 11.
Step 5: Locate Network Adapter
Find and expand the Network adapters section, then right-click your network adapter and select Properties.
This section lists all network hardware connected to your PC. Identifying your network adapter is crucial for configuring WoL.
Step 6: Enable Wake on LAN
Go to the Power Management tab, check “Allow this device to wake the computer,” and click OK.
Ensuring this option is checked allows the network adapter to receive packets that can wake your computer.
Step 7: Configure Advanced Settings
In the Advanced tab of the network adapter properties, find and enable Magic Packet or Wake on Magic Packet.
Magic Packet is a specific type of network message used to wake the computer. Enabling this ensures compatibility with most WoL software.
Once all these steps are completed, your computer should be able to wake up via a network signal.
Tips for Enabling Wake on LAN Windows 11
- Always ensure your Ethernet cable is plugged in, as WoL generally does not work over WiFi unless specifically supported by your hardware.
- Update your network adapter drivers to the latest version for better compatibility.
- Check your router settings; some routers may need configuration to support WoL.
- Disable fast startup in Windows 11 to avoid conflicts with WoL.
- Test your WoL setup by using a second device and WoL software to send the magic packet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Enabling Wake on LAN Windows 11
What is Wake on LAN?
Wake on LAN (WoL) is a feature that allows a computer to be powered on or awakened from sleep mode remotely using a network message.
Do I need special hardware for Wake on LAN?
Most modern computers and network adapters support Wake on LAN. However, you might need to check if your specific hardware supports it.
Can I use Wake on LAN over WiFi?
WoL typically requires a wired Ethernet connection. Some modern network adapters support WoL over WiFi, but this is less common.
How can I test if Wake on LAN is working?
You can test it by using a second device to send a magic packet using WoL software. If your computer wakes up, it’s working.
What happens if Wake on LAN doesn’t work?
Double-check your BIOS/UEFI settings, network adapter settings in Windows, and ensure your router supports WoL. Updating your drivers may also help.
Summary of Steps
- Enter BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Enable Wake on LAN.
- Boot into Windows 11.
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate Network Adapter.
- Enable Wake on LAN.
- Configure Advanced Settings.
Conclusion
Enabling Wake on LAN on Windows 11 is a practical feature, especially for those who need remote access to their computers. Whether you’re working from another room or across the world, WoL makes it easy to power up your PC remotely.
Following the outlined steps ensures your computer is set up correctly for Wake on LAN, from BIOS/UEFI configuration to Windows Device Manager settings. Don’t forget to test your setup with WoL software to confirm everything is functioning smoothly.
For further reading, consider looking up detailed guides on your specific BIOS/UEFI firmware or consulting community forums for troubleshooting tips. Wake on LAN can become an essential tool in your remote working toolkit, making it easier to manage your computer from anywhere.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.