Wake-on-LAN (EN)

Wake-on-LAN

Wake-on-LAN (WoL) is a network protocol that enables remote starting of computers from sleep mode without requiring physical access to the device. The protocol sends special Magic Packets over the network that instruct the target computer's network controller to power on. This feature is particularly useful in enterprise environments for centrally managed systems and optimizing energy consumption.

Architecture

flowchart TD     A[Wake-on-LAN Client] -->|Magic Packet| B[Network Switch]     B --> C[Target Computer]     C -->|Wake Signal| D[Network Controller]     D --> E[System Power Supply]     E --> F[Computer Starts] 

In Context

• Typically used together with DHCP and Wake-on-LAN capable network cards
• Related to: Remote Management, Power Management, IPMI
• Example use case: Centralized shutdown and startup of servers in data centers