Wake-on-LAN on macOS (Local Network Only)

This guide explains how Wake-on-LAN (WOL) works on macOS and how to enable it using the options provided by the operating system.

Wake-on-LAN on macOS is limited by Apple’s design and behaves differently from Windows or Linux systems.

Supported systems

• macOS Ventura
• macOS Sonoma
• Newer macOS versions

Applies to Macs using:

• Wired Ethernet (built-in or USB-to-Ethernet adapter)

⚠️ Important macOS limitations (read first)

Wake-on-LAN on macOS has significant limitations:

• Works only with wired Ethernet
• Does not work reliably over Wi-Fi
• Often works only from Sleep
• May not work from full shutdown
• Apple does not expose low-level WOL controls

These are platform limitations, not configuration errors.

What Wake-on-LAN means on macOS

On macOS, Wake-on-LAN usually means:

• The Mac is put into Sleep
• Another device on the same LAN sends network traffic
• The Mac wakes up automatically

This is sometimes referred to by Apple as:

• Wake for network access

Step 1: Enable “Wake for network access”

1. Open System Settings
2. Go to Energy Saver
   (or Battery → Options on laptops)
3. Enable:
   • Wake for network access

If this option is not visible, the hardware does not support Wake-on-LAN.

Step 2: Verify Ethernet connection

1. Open System Settings
2. Go to Network
3. Select Ethernet
4. Ensure the status is Connected

Wake-on-LAN will not work if Ethernet is disconnected.

Step 3: Put the Mac to sleep

Wake-on-LAN on macOS works best from Sleep, not from shutdown.

• Use Sleep from the Apple menu
• Do not shut the Mac down

After sleeping:

• Ethernet port LEDs should remain on or blinking

Power state considerations

Wake-on-LAN on macOS typically works when the Mac is in:

• Sleep

Wake-on-LAN usually does not work when the Mac is:

• Fully shut down
• Running on battery only
• Using Wi-Fi only

For best results:

• Keep the Mac connected to power
• Use Sleep instead of Shutdown

Common problems and limitations

Mac does not wake from shutdown

This is expected behavior on many Macs. Apple often does not support Wake-on-LAN from full shutdown.

Use Sleep instead.

“Wake for network access” option not visible

• The Ethernet adapter may not support WOL
• Some USB-to-Ethernet adapters do not support WOL
• Apple Silicon Macs may restrict this feature

Multiple network interfaces present

• Ensure Ethernet is the active connection
• Disable Wi-Fi to avoid confusion
• Ignore virtual or Thunderbolt bridge interfaces