If you want to remotely power on a sleeping computer, AnyDesk Wake on LAN can be a useful feature. It allows you to wake a device without physically pressing the power button, making remote work and system maintenance much easier.
In this guide, we'll walk through how to configure AnyDesk Wake on LAN step by step, including BIOS settings, operating system configuration, and AnyDesk options. While the process works well when everything is configured correctly, it can also involve several technical steps. That's why we'll also introduce DeskIn, a simpler and more streamlined alternative for remote access and Wake on LAN. Keep reading to learn both approaches.
What Is Wake on LAN and Why Do You Need It?
Wake on LAN is a networking feature that allows a device to be powered on remotely through a special network signal known as a "magic packet." When the sleeping computer's network card receives this packet, it sends a signal to the motherboard to start the system.
The main benefit of Wake on LAN is convenience and energy efficiency. Instead of keeping a computer running all day, you can leave it in sleep or shutdown mode and wake it only when needed. This saves electricity and extends hardware lifespan.
Another advantage is accessibility. Whether you're working from home, performing remote maintenance, or managing servers, Wake on LAN ensures devices remain reachable even when they are powered down. IT teams often rely on this capability to troubleshoot systems or perform updates without being physically present.
How to Set Up AnyDesk Wake on LAN Step by Step
Configuring AnyDesk Wake on LAN involves preparing the hardware, enabling settings in your operating system, and activating the feature in AnyDesk itself. The steps below will guide you through the process.
Step 1. Enable Wake on LAN in BIOS or UEFI
The first requirement is enabling Wake on LAN at the motherboard level.
Restart your computer.
Enter the BIOS or UEFI menu during startup (usually by pressing F2, DEL, or F10).
Open the Power Management section.
Locate a setting such as Wake on LAN, Power on by PCI-E, or similar.
Enable the option.
Save changes and exit the BIOS.
This step ensures the motherboard will allow network signals to power the system on.

Step 2. Configure the Network Adapter in Windows
Next, you need to allow the network card to receive wake signals.
Open Device Manager.
Expand Network Adapters.
Right-click your Ethernet adapter and select Properties.
Go to the Advanced tab and enable Wake on Magic Packet.
Open the Power Management tab.
Check Allow this device to wake the computer.
Also, enable Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer.
For users running AnyDesk Wake on LAN on Windows 11 or older systems, these steps are essentially the same.

Step 3. Disable Fast Startup (Optional but Recommended)
Some Windows systems block network wake signals due to the fast startup feature.
To disable it:
Open Control Panel.
Go to Power Options.
Click Choose what the power buttons do.
Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
This step often fixes situations where AnyDesk Wake on LAN is not working even though the configuration appears correct.

Step 4. Enable Wake on LAN Inside AnyDesk
Now configure the feature inside the AnyDesk client.
Open AnyDesk on the target computer.
Go to Settings.
Navigate to the Wake-on-LAN option.
Enable Allow Wake-on-LAN.
Ensure another AnyDesk device on the same network remains online.
When you try to connect to the sleeping device, AnyDesk will show a "Power On" option.

Step 5. Wake the Device Remotely
After completing the setup:
Open AnyDesk on your remote device.
Enter the address of the sleeping computer.
Click Power On.
AnyDesk will locate another active device on the same network and ask it to send the wake packet.
This process is how Wake on LAN AnyDesk functions behind the scenes. If everything is configured correctly, the sleeping machine will start, and AnyDesk will automatically connect.
Troubleshooting Common Wake Issues
Sometimes you may see errors such as AnyDesk Wake on LAN no device found. This usually means there is no active device on the same network to send the magic packet. Another frequent issue is that AnyDesk Wake on LAN not working due to Wi-Fi limitations. Wake signals are most reliable over wired Ethernet connections.
If troubleshooting becomes too time-consuming, many users choose tools designed to simplify remote desktop Wake on LAN workflows.
[Bonus] Why DeskIn Is a Smarter Choice

While AnyDesk provides Wake on LAN functionality, the setup process can be technical. Users often need to adjust BIOS settings, network adapters, and device configurations before the feature works properly.
DeskIn focuses on making remote access simpler and more reliable. First, the setup process is easier. Devices linked to the same DeskIn account can be managed quickly without complex network configuration or troubleshooting steps. Second, DeskIn delivers excellent performance for remote connections. It supports high-resolution sessions, smooth frame rates, and stable connections even when accessing powerful workstations remotely. Third, DeskIn integrates device management, remote access, and connectivity tools into one platform. Instead of relying on multiple Wake on LAN software tools, users can manage everything from a single interface.
For professionals who frequently need remote access, DeskIn provides a faster and more predictable experience.
π You may also be interested in
FAQs About AnyDesk Wake on LAN
1. Can AnyDesk do Wake-on-LAN?
Yes. AnyDesk supports Wake on LAN as long as the hardware, operating system, and application settings are configured properly. Another device on the same network must remain active to send the wake signal.
2. How do I enable remote Wake-on-LAN?
You must enable Wake on LAN in three places: the BIOS or UEFI firmware, the operating system's network adapter settings, and the AnyDesk client configuration. Once enabled, you can wake a sleeping device remotely.
3. How does Wake on LAN work?
Wake on LAN works by sending a "magic packet" containing the device's MAC address through the network. The network card receives the packet and signals the motherboard to power the system.
H3: 4. Does Wake-on-LAN work if the computer is off?
Yes, but only if the system supports Wake on LAN from the shutdown state and still receives standby power through the network adapter. For smoother remote control workflows, many users adopt tools like DeskIn.
Conclusion
Setting up AnyDesk Wake on LAN allows you to power on a remote computer without physically accessing it. By enabling BIOS settings, configuring the network adapter, and activating the feature inside AnyDesk, you can wake sleeping machines and connect instantly.
However, the setup process can sometimes be complicated, especially when dealing with hardware compatibility or network configuration issues. If you prefer a simpler and more reliable remote access experience, DeskIn provides an excellent alternative.
With streamlined device management, stable remote sessions, and easier setup, DeskIn helps you stay connected to your computers anytime while still benefiting from the power of Wake on LAN.
If you want to remotely power on a sleeping computer, AnyDesk Wake on LAN can be a useful feature. It allows you to wake a device without physically pressing the power button, making remote work and system maintenance much easier.
In this guide, we'll walk through how to configure AnyDesk Wake on LAN step by step, including BIOS settings, operating system configuration, and AnyDesk options. While the process works well when everything is configured correctly, it can also involve several technical steps. That's why we'll also introduce DeskIn, a simpler and more streamlined alternative for remote access and Wake on LAN. Keep reading to learn both approaches.
What Is Wake on LAN and Why Do You Need It?
Wake on LAN is a networking feature that allows a device to be powered on remotely through a special network signal known as a "magic packet." When the sleeping computer's network card receives this packet, it sends a signal to the motherboard to start the system.
The main benefit of Wake on LAN is convenience and energy efficiency. Instead of keeping a computer running all day, you can leave it in sleep or shutdown mode and wake it only when needed. This saves electricity and extends hardware lifespan.
Another advantage is accessibility. Whether you're working from home, performing remote maintenance, or managing servers, Wake on LAN ensures devices remain reachable even when they are powered down. IT teams often rely on this capability to troubleshoot systems or perform updates without being physically present.
How to Set Up AnyDesk Wake on LAN Step by Step
Configuring AnyDesk Wake on LAN involves preparing the hardware, enabling settings in your operating system, and activating the feature in AnyDesk itself. The steps below will guide you through the process.
Step 1. Enable Wake on LAN in BIOS or UEFI
The first requirement is enabling Wake on LAN at the motherboard level.
Restart your computer.
Enter the BIOS or UEFI menu during startup (usually by pressing F2, DEL, or F10).
Open the Power Management section.
Locate a setting such as Wake on LAN, Power on by PCI-E, or similar.
Enable the option.
Save changes and exit the BIOS.
This step ensures the motherboard will allow network signals to power the system on.

Step 2. Configure the Network Adapter in Windows
Next, you need to allow the network card to receive wake signals.
Open Device Manager.
Expand Network Adapters.
Right-click your Ethernet adapter and select Properties.
Go to the Advanced tab and enable Wake on Magic Packet.
Open the Power Management tab.
Check Allow this device to wake the computer.
Also, enable Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer.
For users running AnyDesk Wake on LAN on Windows 11 or older systems, these steps are essentially the same.

Step 3. Disable Fast Startup (Optional but Recommended)
Some Windows systems block network wake signals due to the fast startup feature.
To disable it:
Open Control Panel.
Go to Power Options.
Click Choose what the power buttons do.
Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
This step often fixes situations where AnyDesk Wake on LAN is not working even though the configuration appears correct.

Step 4. Enable Wake on LAN Inside AnyDesk
Now configure the feature inside the AnyDesk client.
Open AnyDesk on the target computer.
Go to Settings.
Navigate to the Wake-on-LAN option.
Enable Allow Wake-on-LAN.
Ensure another AnyDesk device on the same network remains online.
When you try to connect to the sleeping device, AnyDesk will show a "Power On" option.

Step 5. Wake the Device Remotely
After completing the setup:
Open AnyDesk on your remote device.
Enter the address of the sleeping computer.
Click Power On.
AnyDesk will locate another active device on the same network and ask it to send the wake packet.
This process is how Wake on LAN AnyDesk functions behind the scenes. If everything is configured correctly, the sleeping machine will start, and AnyDesk will automatically connect.
Troubleshooting Common Wake Issues
Sometimes you may see errors such as AnyDesk Wake on LAN no device found. This usually means there is no active device on the same network to send the magic packet. Another frequent issue is that AnyDesk Wake on LAN not working due to Wi-Fi limitations. Wake signals are most reliable over wired Ethernet connections.
If troubleshooting becomes too time-consuming, many users choose tools designed to simplify remote desktop Wake on LAN workflows.
[Bonus] Why DeskIn Is a Smarter Choice

While AnyDesk provides Wake on LAN functionality, the setup process can be technical. Users often need to adjust BIOS settings, network adapters, and device configurations before the feature works properly.
DeskIn focuses on making remote access simpler and more reliable. First, the setup process is easier. Devices linked to the same DeskIn account can be managed quickly without complex network configuration or troubleshooting steps. Second, DeskIn delivers excellent performance for remote connections. It supports high-resolution sessions, smooth frame rates, and stable connections even when accessing powerful workstations remotely. Third, DeskIn integrates device management, remote access, and connectivity tools into one platform. Instead of relying on multiple Wake on LAN software tools, users can manage everything from a single interface.
For professionals who frequently need remote access, DeskIn provides a faster and more predictable experience.
π You may also be interested in
FAQs About AnyDesk Wake on LAN
1. Can AnyDesk do Wake-on-LAN?
Yes. AnyDesk supports Wake on LAN as long as the hardware, operating system, and application settings are configured properly. Another device on the same network must remain active to send the wake signal.
2. How do I enable remote Wake-on-LAN?
You must enable Wake on LAN in three places: the BIOS or UEFI firmware, the operating system's network adapter settings, and the AnyDesk client configuration. Once enabled, you can wake a sleeping device remotely.
3. How does Wake on LAN work?
Wake on LAN works by sending a "magic packet" containing the device's MAC address through the network. The network card receives the packet and signals the motherboard to power the system.
H3: 4. Does Wake-on-LAN work if the computer is off?
Yes, but only if the system supports Wake on LAN from the shutdown state and still receives standby power through the network adapter. For smoother remote control workflows, many users adopt tools like DeskIn.
Conclusion
Setting up AnyDesk Wake on LAN allows you to power on a remote computer without physically accessing it. By enabling BIOS settings, configuring the network adapter, and activating the feature inside AnyDesk, you can wake sleeping machines and connect instantly.
However, the setup process can sometimes be complicated, especially when dealing with hardware compatibility or network configuration issues. If you prefer a simpler and more reliable remote access experience, DeskIn provides an excellent alternative.
With streamlined device management, stable remote sessions, and easier setup, DeskIn helps you stay connected to your computers anytime while still benefiting from the power of Wake on LAN.















