How to Confirm That Wake on LAN Is Enabled in the Computer's BIOS
By Jacob Andrew
Enabling the Wake on LAN function allows a sleeping computer to be awakened by a special network command. To ensure that this function is set to “on” or “enabled,” you’ll have to edit the computer’s Basic Input-Output System. The BIOS loads shortly after a computer is powered on, and coordinates communication between the hardware and operating system. Before the operating system loads, you need to push a special key to enter the BIOS. Different BIOSs have different menus to navigate, but most Wake on LAN settings are found under the BIOS power management section.
Check WOL Settings for American Megatrend (AMI) BIOS (SEE REF 1, page 7)
Step 1
Power down and then power on the computer. Prior to the first beep sound, press the assigned key to enter the BIOS. This is typically the F1, F2, Del, or Esc key, but it differs according to BIOS version, motherboard manufacturer and, in some instances, computer maker. Many computers tell you which key to press to enter BIOS, prior to the loading of the operating system. If you still cannot enter the BIOS, check your motherboard manufacturer’s manual.
Step 2
Press the side arrows to navigate to the “Advanced” menu.
Step 3
Press the down arrow until “Chipset Configuration” is highlighted and press “Enter.”
Step 4
Press the down arrow until “Southbridge Configuration” is highlighted and press “Enter”
Step 5
Look at the “Wake on LAN from S5” setting is set to “Enabled”. If not, select it and press “Enter” to change.
Check WOL Settings for Biostar BIOS
Step 1
Power on the computer. Prior to the first beep sound, press the assigned key to enter the BIOS. This is typically the F1, F2, Del, or Esc key, but it differs according to BIOS version, motherboard manufacturer and, in some instances, computer maker. Many computers tell you which key to press to enter BIOS, prior to the loading of the operating system. If you still cannot enter the BIOS, check your motherboard manufacturer’s manual.
Step 2
Press the down arrow key until “Power Management Setup” is highlighted and press “Enter.”
Step 3
Look at the “WOL(PME#) From Soft Off” setting is set to “Enabled.” If not, use the arrow keys to select it and press plus (+), minus (-), Page Up or Page Down key to change.
Check WOL Settings on HP Computers (SEE REF 3)
Step 1
Power on the computer. Prior to the first beep sound, press the assigned key to enter the BIOS. This is typically the F1, F2, Del, or Esc key, but it differs according to BIOS version, motherboard manufacturer and, in some instances, computer maker. Many computers tell you which key to press to enter BIOS, prior to the loading of the operating system. If you still cannot enter the BIOS, check your motherboard manufacturer’s manual.
Step 2
Push the right arrow key until “Power” settings is selected and press “Enter.”
Step 3
Push the down arrow key until the “Hardware Power Management” menu is selected and press “Enter.”
Step 4
Look at the “S5 Wake on LAN” setting is set to “Enabled”. If not, use the up- and down-arrow keys to select it. Once selected, use the left- or right arrow keys to change it to “Enabled.”
References
Tips
- BIOS manufacturers routinely release updates to their software, or sometime tailor them to a specific motherboard or computer manufacturer. If you have difficulty finding the S5 Wake on LAN setting, consult the manufacturer of your motherboard or computer. See link in Resources for a comprehensive list of companies with a proprietary
Warnings
- Steps for Hewlett-Packard computer assume BIOS version 7. The steps will vary if you have an older version.
- When you enable Wake on LAN functions, you leave your computer open to unwanted wake-up events, particularly in Windows 7 and Vista. For more information on enabling the Wake on LAN feature while still preserving the power-saving functions of an S5 “Sleep” state, see the link in Resources.
Writer Bio
Jacob Andrew previously worked as an A+ and CCNA-certified technology specialist. After receiving his BA in journalism from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 2012, he turned his focus towards writing about travel, politics and current technology.