Wake-on-LAN (WoL) is a technology that enables you to turn on your computer remotely over a network. It is a useful feature in situations where you need to access your computer from a remote location, but it is not turned on. With Wake-on-LAN, you can use your other devices, such as your phone, to turn on your computer without being physically present. Setting up and using Wake-on-LAN is quite simple, and in this article, we will explain how to do it.

1. Check if your computer supports WoL

Before setting up WoL, it is important to ensure that your computer supports this feature. Most computers that were built after 1995 support Wake-on-LAN. However, to check if your computer supports WoL, you will need to access your computer’s BIOS settings. To do this, reboot your computer and press the BIOS key when prompted. The BIOS key is usually F2, F10 or Delete, depending on your computer model. Once you are in the BIOS settings, look for the “Power Management” or “Wake on LAN” option. If your computer has this option, it supports WoL, and you can proceed to the next step.

2. Enable WoL in your computer’s BIOS

To enable Wake-on-LAN, you need to access your computer’s BIOS settings and activate this feature. To do this, go to the “Power Management” or “Wake-on-LAN” option in the BIOS settings and select “Enabled”. Save the changes you have made and exit the BIOS settings.

3. Enable WoL in your computer’s network adapter settings

After enabling Wake-on-LAN in your computer’s BIOS settings, you need to activate it in your network adapter’s settings. To do this, go to your computer’s Device Manager and find the network adapter you are using. Right-click on the adapter and select “Properties”. In the “Power Management” tab, check the box next to “Allow this device to wake the computer”. Save the changes you have made.

4. Install a WoL app on your phone

To remotely start your computer using Wake-on-LAN, you need to install a WoL app on your phone. There are several WoL apps available on both Android and iOS platforms. Some popular WoL apps you can use are Fing, WakeOnLAN, and PC Remote.

5. Configure your router for WoL

To remotely start your computer over the internet, you need to configure your router for Wake-on-LAN. The steps to configure a router depend on the model and the firmware version. However, the basic steps are to forward the WoL packets to the computer’s IP address and enable the broadcast address.

6. Turn on your computer remotely

To turn on your computer remotely, open the WoL app on your phone and enter the MAC address of your computer, which you can find in the Device Manager. Once you have entered the MAC address, select “Wake”. This will send a WoL packet to your computer, which will turn it on remotely.

In conclusion, Wake-on-LAN is a useful feature that allows you to turn on your computer remotely over a network. Setting up Wake-on-LAN is easy and straightforward, and you can use it in various situations, such as accessing your computer remotely or turning on your computer from another room. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up and use Wake-on-LAN with ease.