Intel NUC (Next Unit of Computing) devices offer powerful computing in a compact form factor. These mini PCs can be even more versatile with Wake on LAN (WoL) enabled. Wake on LAN lets you remotely power on your Intel NUC from another device on the same network, saving energy and enabling convenient remote access.
Setting up WoL on your Intel NUC involves a few simple steps. You’ll need to configure settings in both the BIOS and Windows. This allows your NUC to respond to “magic packets” sent over the network, waking it from sleep or powered-off states.
Once set up, you can turn on your NUC from anywhere on your local network. This is handy for accessing files, running updates, or using your NUC as a media server. Here’s a quick comparison of WoL benefits:
| Feature | With WoL | Without WoL |
|---|---|---|
| Remote power on | Yes | No |
| Energy savings | High | Low |
| Always accessible | Yes | No |
| Setup required | Minimal | None |
Waking Up Your Intel NUC Remotely: A Guide to Setting Up Wake-on-LAN
Wake-on-LAN (WOL) is a handy feature that allows you to remotely power on your Intel NUC. This can be useful for accessing files, starting downloads, or performing tasks without needing to be physically present at your device. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of setting up WOL on your Intel NUC.
Prerequisites
- Ethernet Connection: Ensure your NUC is connected to your network via an Ethernet cable. WOL typically doesn’t work over Wi-Fi due to power-saving modes in wireless adapters.
- BIOS Settings: Access your NUC’s BIOS settings and enable WOL. The setting might be labeled as “Wake-on-LAN,” “PME Event Wake-Up,” or something similar. Refer to your NUC’s manual for specific instructions.
Configuring Network Adapter Settings
- Open Device Manager: In Windows, search for “Device Manager” and open it.
- Expand Network Adapters: Locate your Ethernet adapter and double-click it.
- Power Management Tab: Go to the “Power Management” tab.
- Enable Wake-on-LAN: Check the boxes for “Allow this device to wake the computer” and “Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer.”
- Advanced Tab: Go to the “Advanced” tab.
- Enable Wake on Magic Packet: Ensure “Wake on Magic Packet” is enabled.
- Apply Changes: Click “OK” to save the changes.
Finding Your NUC’s MAC Address
- Open Command Prompt: Search for “Command Prompt” and open it.
- Type
ipconfig /all: Press Enter. - Locate Physical Address: Find your Ethernet adapter’s “Physical Address.” This is your NUC’s MAC address.
Using a WOL Tool
You’ll need a WOL tool to send the “magic packet” that wakes up your NUC. Many free and paid tools are available. Some popular options include:
- Wake-on-LAN Sender (Windows): A simple and free tool.
- Wake On Lan (Android): A convenient app for waking up devices from your phone.
- TeamViewer (Windows, macOS, Linux): A remote access tool with WOL functionality.
Sending the Magic Packet
- Enter MAC Address: In your WOL tool, enter your NUC’s MAC address.
- Enter IP Address (Optional): Some tools might require your NUC’s IP address.
- Send the Packet: Click the “Wake Up” or “Send” button.
Troubleshooting
- Firewall: Ensure your firewall isn’t blocking WOL traffic.
- Power Settings: Check your NUC’s power settings to ensure it’s not completely powered off. Some sleep modes might prevent WOL from working.
- Network Configuration: Verify that your NUC and the device sending the magic packet are on the same network.
Benefits of Wake-on-LAN
- Remote Access: Power on your NUC remotely for convenient access.
- Energy Saving: Keep your NUC in a low-power state when not in use.
- Scheduled Tasks: Use WOL to schedule tasks like backups or downloads.
Advanced Wake-on-LAN Configurations
- Wake-on-WAN: Wake up your NUC even when you’re outside your local network. This usually requires port forwarding on your router.
- BIOS Settings: Explore advanced BIOS settings for more granular control over WOL behavior.
- WOL with Wi-Fi: Some newer NUCs and Wi-Fi adapters might support WOL over Wi-Fi, but it often requires specific configurations.
Understanding Wake on LAN
Wake on LAN (WOL) allows remote power-up of networked devices. This feature enables efficient management of computers and energy savings in various environments.
Basic Principles of WOL
WOL uses a special network packet called a “magic packet” to wake up a computer. This packet contains the target device’s MAC address repeated 16 times. When sent over the network, it triggers the network interface card (NIC) to power on the system.
To use WOL, you need:
- A WOL-compatible network card
- BIOS/UEFI support for WOL
- Proper configuration in the operating system
Configuring WOL in Windows 10 involves adjusting network adapter settings. You’ll need to enable “Wake on Magic Packet” in the device manager.
System Sleep States and Power Modes
Computers have different power states that affect WOL functionality:
| State | Description | WOL Support |
|---|---|---|
| S0 | Fully on | N/A |
| S3 | Sleep | Yes |
| S4 | Hibernate | Yes |
| S5 | Soft off | Yes |
In S3 (sleep) and S4 (hibernate), the NIC remains powered to detect WOL packets. S5 (soft off) also supports WOL if configured correctly in BIOS/UEFI.
Some Intel NUCs may have inconsistent WOL behavior in certain states. For example, the NUC11PHKi7C model might work reliably when turned off but not in sleep states.
Comparison of Ethernet and Wireless Wake-on-LAN
Ethernet WOL is more common and reliable than wireless WOL. Wired connections maintain a constant link, allowing easier detection of magic packets.
Wireless WOL faces challenges:
- Power management in Wi-Fi adapters
- Network disconnection during sleep
Some devices support wireless WOL, but it often requires specific hardware and driver support. ASUS NUCs provide steps to configure wireless WOL in Windows 10.
For most reliable WOL performance, use a wired Ethernet connection. This ensures consistent network connectivity and better magic packet detection.
Setting up Wake on LAN on Intel NUC
Enabling Wake on LAN (WoL) on your Intel NUC allows remote power-on capabilities. This feature requires proper configuration in the BIOS, operating system, and network settings.
BIOS Configuration for WOL
Access the BIOS on your Intel NUC by pressing F2 during startup. Navigate to the Power menu and locate the Wake on LAN option. Enable this setting to allow network signals to power on your device.
Check for additional WoL-related options such as “Wake from S4/S5” or “PCIe ASPM Support” and enable them if available. These settings may vary depending on your specific NUC model.
Save your changes and exit the BIOS. Your NUC will restart with the new settings applied.
Operating System Settings and Drivers
In Windows, open Device Manager and expand the Network Adapters section. Right-click on your network adapter and select Properties.
Navigate to the Power Management tab and check the box next to “Allow this device to wake the computer.” Also, enable “Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer” for enhanced security.
Update your network drivers to ensure compatibility with WoL features. Intel provides specific drivers for NUC devices that optimize WoL functionality.
Disable Fast Startup in Windows to prevent conflicts with WoL:
- Open Power Options
- Click “Choose what the power buttons do”
- Select “Change settings that are currently unavailable”
- Uncheck “Turn on fast startup”
- Save changes
Software Solutions for Wake on LAN
Several software options can help manage WoL on your Intel NUC. These tools send the magic packet required to wake your device remotely.
| Software | Platform | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wake on LAN | Windows | User-friendly interface, scheduled wake-ups |
| Depicus WOL | Web-based | No installation required, cross-platform |
| WakeMeOnLan | Windows | Network scanning, multiple device management |
Configure your router to forward WoL packets to your NUC’s MAC address. This step is crucial for waking your device from outside your local network.
Test your WoL setup using these software solutions. If issues persist, double-check your BIOS and OS settings. Ensure your NUC’s network cable remains connected for WoL to function properly.
Troubleshooting Wake on LAN Issues
Wake on LAN (WoL) can be tricky to set up correctly. Common problems include incorrect network settings and compatibility issues with hardware or software.
Common Problems and Solutions
Configuring Wake on LAN often involves adjusting several settings. Check your BIOS to ensure WoL is enabled. In Windows, open Device Manager and locate your network adapter. Enable “Wake on Magic Packet” in the Power Management tab.
If WoL doesn’t work after sleep mode, Fast Startup might be the culprit. Disable it in Windows Power Options. Some users on Reddit report success by updating network drivers or adjusting firewall settings.
Test WoL functionality using dedicated software tools. They can help identify if the problem lies with your network configuration or the receiving device.
Ensuring Compatibility and Security
WoL compatibility varies across devices. Verify your NUC model supports this feature. Older hardware might require BIOS updates to work properly.
| WoL Security Measures | Description |
|---|---|
| MAC Address Filtering | Only allow specific devices to wake your NUC |
| SecureOn Password | Add a password to WoL packets for extra security |
| VLAN Isolation | Restrict WoL packets to specific network segments |
Consider using a VPN if you need to wake your NUC remotely. This adds a layer of security by not exposing your device directly to the internet. Remember to forward the necessary ports on your router for WoL to function across the internet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wake-on-LAN functionality on Intel NUCs can be complex. These questions address common issues and configuration steps for various operating systems and scenarios.
How can Wake-on-LAN be enabled on an Intel NUC in Windows 11?
To enable Wake-on-LAN on an Intel NUC running Windows 11:
- Open Device Manager
- Expand “Network adapters”
- Right-click your Ethernet adapter and select “Properties”
- Go to the “Power Management” tab
- Check “Allow this device to wake the computer”
- Click “OK” to save changes
You may also need to enable Wake-on-LAN in BIOS settings.
What troubleshooting steps can be taken when Wake-on-LAN is not working on an Intel NUC?
If Wake-on-LAN isn’t working on your Intel NUC:
- Verify BIOS settings are correct
- Check network adapter settings in Windows
- Ensure the NUC is connected to power
- Test with a different Wake-on-LAN software
- Update network drivers
You can also try disabling Fast Startup in Windows power options.
In what power states is Wake-on-LAN functional for Intel NUCs?
Wake-on-LAN typically works when Intel NUCs are in:
- Sleep mode (S3)
- Hibernate mode (S4)
- Soft off state (S5)
It doesn’t work when the NUC is completely powered off or unplugged.
How to configure Wake-on-LAN on Intel NUC for Ubuntu operating system?
To set up Wake-on-LAN on an Intel NUC running Ubuntu:
- Open Terminal
- Run
sudo apt-get install ethtool - Type
sudo ethtool -s eth0 wol g - Edit
/etc/network/interfacesand addup ethtool -s eth0 wol g - Reboot your NUC
Replace eth0 with your network interface name if different.
What methods are available to wake up an Intel NUC remotely?
You can wake an Intel NUC remotely using:
- Wake-on-LAN over Ethernet
- Wake-on-Wireless LAN (WoWLAN)
- Intel Active Management Technology (AMT)
- IPMI (for some server-grade NUCs)
Wake-on-LAN can be configured for both Ethernet and Wireless on supported models.
How do I activate the Wake-on-LAN feature within the BIOS settings of an Intel NUC?
To activate Wake-on-LAN in Intel NUC BIOS:
- Restart your NUC and press F2 to enter BIOS
- Navigate to “Power” or “Advanced” settings
- Find “Wake on LAN from S4/S5”
- Set it to “Power On – Normal Boot”
- Save changes and exit BIOS
This enables Wake-on-LAN from sleep and soft off states.
| Wake-on-LAN Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Ethernet | Reliable, widely supported | Requires wired connection |
| Wireless | Flexible, no cables needed | May be less reliable |
| Intel AMT | Advanced features, remote management | Not available on all models |
| IPMI | Comprehensive remote control | Limited to server-grade NUCs |
