Using Wake-On-LAN from the Command Line on macOS

Wake-On-LAN (WOL) is a network protocol that allows users to remotely power on a computer through a local area network. macOS users can harness this capability through command-line tools, enabling efficient device management. In this article, we’ll guide you through installing and using the ‘wakeonlan’ command-line tool on macOS.

Learn how to install and use the Wake-On-LAN command-line tool on macOS. This guide explains every step in plain language, ensuring you can power on your devices remotely with ease.

What is Wake-On-LAN?

Wake-On-LAN is a convenient feature for IT professionals and home users alike. By sending a specially crafted data packet, often called a “magic packet,” you can turn on a computer that supports WOL. This is particularly useful for accessing devices that are turned off but connected to the same network.

Setting Up Wake-On-LAN on macOS

Step 1: Installing the wakeonlan Tool

The first step in enabling Wake-On-LAN on macOS is to install the necessary tool. Fortunately, the wakeonlan utility is available via Homebrew, a popular macOS package manager. If Homebrew isn’t installed, you can get it by running the following command in your Terminal:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

Once Homebrew is set up, proceed to install the wakeonlan tool:

brew install wakeonlan

This command downloads and installs the tool, making it available for immediate use.

Step 2: Finding the MAC Address

Before sending a WOL signal, you need the MAC address of the target device. The MAC address is a unique identifier for a device’s network interface card. To locate the MAC address:

1. On the target computer, open a terminal or navigate to network settings.
2. Find the “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” adapter details.
3. Note the 12-character hexadecimal string, often formatted as XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX.

Alternatively, you can use the arp command on macOS to list connected devices and their MAC addresses:

arp -a

Step 3: Sending the Magic Packet

Now that you have the MAC address, you can use the wakeonlan command to send the magic packet. For instance, if the MAC address of your target device is MA:C0:0A:DD:RE:SS, the command would be:

wakeonlan MA:C0:0A:DD:RE:SS

This command sends the WOL packet over the network, prompting the target device to power on.

Tips for Successful Wake-On-LAN Usage

• Check BIOS/UEFI Settings: Ensure that Wake-On-LAN is enabled in the target device’s BIOS or UEFI firmware.
• Network Configuration: Confirm that the target device remains connected to the network even when turned off. This typically requires enabling “always-on” Ethernet or a similar setting.
• Firewall Rules: Verify that your network firewall allows WOL packets.
• Subnet Restrictions: Both devices must typically reside within the same subnet for WOL to work seamlessly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Wake-On-LAN Not Working

If the target device does not power on:

1. Recheck the MAC address for typos.
2. Confirm that the device supports WOL and that it’s enabled.
3. Test the wakeonlan command from another computer on the same network.

Wake-On-LAN Works Sporadically

Intermittent issues may result from power-saving settings. Check the device’s power management settings to ensure network connectivity is maintained in a low-power state.

Why Use Wake-On-LAN?

WOL simplifies remote device management, saving time and energy. Whether you’re an IT administrator managing multiple systems or a home user wanting to access a powered-down computer, this tool enhances convenience without requiring physical access.

Conclusion

Using Wake-On-LAN from the command line on macOS is straightforward with the wakeonlan tool. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can remotely power on compatible devices with ease. This capability underscores the versatility of macOS as a robust platform for technical tasks.