Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Wake and restart are different operations. Wake-on-LAN (WoL) is a low-level feature that powers or resumes a compatible laptop when its network adapter receives a “magic packet.” A restart is an operating-system command sent to a computer that is already running and reachable. WoL cannot restart a machine by itself.
For reliable unattended access, verify that the exact laptop model, firmware, network adapter and intended power state support waking; connect by Ethernet when required; keep suitable AC power attached; and arrange a trusted way to deliver the packet to the local network. Restart a reachable system through an authenticated management channel that is already enabled. The procedure below covers sleep, hibernation, shutdown, off-network access, pre-boot obstacles and recovery when the laptop does not respond.
Choose the operation that matches the laptop’s state
Start by identifying what happened to the laptop. The remedy depends on whether the operating system is still running, suspended, or completely powered off.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors| Current state | Correct method | What must already be true |
|---|---|---|
| Running and reachable | Issue an authenticated OS restart | Remote management is enabled, credentials are valid, and your account can restart the computer |
| Sleeping or hibernating | Send a Wake-on-LAN packet (or use a model-specific wake feature) | Firmware and adapter support that state; the laptop has network and suitable power |
| Shut down | Use WoL only if the exact model supports wake from shutdown | Firmware, adapter and OS behavior must be tested from a full shutdown |
| Powered off with no network standby | Use a documented power-on-after-AC-restoration feature or physical access | The firmware must boot when AC returns; a battery can prevent a smart plug from actually removing power |
If the machine is already reachable, do not send a wake packet first. Restart it through the remote-management path. If it is unreachable because it is asleep or off, an SSH or RDP client cannot connect until the laptop has resumed, booted and reconnected.
#1 Best Overall
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 65 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Instant Internet: Connect to the internet instantly from virtually any USB-C 3.0 device, and enjoy stable connection speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
- Lightweight and Compact: The space-saving and portable design measures just over half an inch thick and weighs about the same as a AA battery.
- Premium Build: Features a sleek aluminum exterior and braided-nylon cable to complement the design of high-end devices.
- What You Get: PowerExpand USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, welcome guide, 18-month worry-free warranty, and friendly customer service.
Check compatibility before changing settings
Confirm hardware and firmware support
WoL is not something software can add to unsupported hardware. The mainboard/firmware and the network adapter both need the required capability, and the manufacturer may omit the setting on some models. TP-Link’s prerequisites call for a supported mainboard and wired adapter (TP-Link WoL guidance). ASUS likewise notes that its UEFI option is model-dependent and may be absent on unsupported machines (ASUS support instructions).
Look up the manufacturer’s support page for the exact model and read which states are supported: sleep (often S3), hibernation, hybrid sleep or soft shutdown. Do not infer support from a similar laptop in the same product family.
Identify the network interface
Many laptop implementations require wired Ethernet and do not support waking over Wi‑Fi. A USB-C Ethernet adapter can help only when the laptop, adapter, dock and firmware keep that interface armed during sleep or shutdown; the adapter itself does not guarantee WoL compatibility. Getscreen’s documented method specifies Ethernet and continuous power (Getscreen waking guide).
Plan for power
For unattended operation, connect the AC adapter unless the manufacturer explicitly documents battery operation. Some laptops disable network wake on battery to conserve power. If you plan to use a dock, verify that the dock supplies the supported wired path and remains powered while the laptop sleeps.
Configure Wake-on-LAN on the laptop
Labels differ by model, Windows edition and adapter driver, so use these steps as a checklist and follow the manufacturer’s wording when it differs.
Rank #2
- USB-C Meets 1000Mbps Ethernet in Seconds：UGREEN usb c to ethernet adapter supports fast speeds up to 1000Mbps and is backward compatible with 100/10Mbps network. Perfect for work, gaming, streaming, or downloading with a stable, reliable wired connection
- Extend a Ethernet Port for Your Device：This ethernet to usb c adds a Gigabit RJ45 port to your device. It’s the perfect solution for new laptops without built-in Ethernet, devices with damaged LAN ports, or when WiFi is unavailable or unstable
- Plug and Play: This Ethernet adapter is driver-free for Windows 11/10/8.1/8, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android. Drivers are required for Windows XP/7/Vista and Linux, and can be easily installed using our instructions. LED indicator shows status at a glance
- Small Adapter, Big Attention to Detail: The usb c to ethernet features a durable aluminum alloy case for faster heat dissipation than plastic. Its reinforced cable tail and wear-resistant port ensure long-lasting durability. Compact size and easy to carry
- Widely Compatible: The usbc to ethernet adapter is compatible with most laptops, tablets, smartphones, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/3 port, like MacBook Pro/Air, XPS, iPhone 17/16/15 Pro/Pro Max, Mac Mini, Chromebook, iPad
- Record the adapter identity. In the operating system, note the wired adapter’s MAC address and IP configuration. You will need the MAC address when creating a wake command or relay rule. If the laptop has several adapters, select the one that remains connected in the target sleep or shutdown state.
- Enter UEFI/BIOS setup. Reboot locally and use the model’s setup key. Search menus such as Advanced, Power Management, APM Configuration or Network for “Wake on LAN,” “Power on by PCI-E,” “Wake from S5” or equivalent. Enable only options documented for your model; an option that is absent is evidence that the feature may not be supported.
- Enable the adapter’s wake permissions in the OS. In Windows, open Device Manager, expand Network adapters, open the wired adapter’s Properties, and inspect Power Management and Advanced tabs. Where present, allow the device to wake the computer and enable the driver’s “Wake on Magic Packet” option. Driver names and available checkboxes vary.
- Keep the interface connected. Plug Ethernet directly into the laptop or a supported dock. Confirm link lights and that the adapter retains a link after sleep. A disconnected cable, powered-off dock or driver that unloads during sleep prevents the packet from reaching the NIC.
- Set the intended power state. Decide whether you will use sleep, hibernate or shutdown. Configure that state, rather than testing only a quick screen lock, because a laptop can support wake from sleep but not from shutdown.
- Allow the system to settle. Wait until the laptop is fully asleep or shut down, then send a packet from another device on the same LAN. On a successful wake, wait for the operating system to finish booting and for the remote-access agent to start before connecting.
Getscreen emphasizes testing from the exact state in which the computer will be left (its wake documentation). Perform several local tests before depending on remote recovery.
Wake the laptop from the local network
A WoL packet is normally delivered inside the target LAN. A router, NAS, server or another always-on computer can send it to the laptop’s MAC address. Use the sender’s documented WoL function or a trusted utility; the important inputs are the target MAC address, the local broadcast/network destination and, where required, the interface.
- Put the laptop into the tested sleep, hibernate or shutdown state.
- From a device on the same LAN, send a magic packet to the laptop’s recorded MAC address.
- Wait for the firmware to resume or power on, then allow the operating system and remote-control service to load.
- If there is no response, check link lights, AC power, the adapter’s wake settings and whether the laptop supports that exact state.
Do not confuse a laptop’s last known IP address with its MAC address. DHCP leases can change while the laptop is off; WoL identifies the adapter by its hardware address, while the delivery mechanism determines how the packet reaches the LAN.
Wake it while you are away from home or the office
When your phone or remote computer is outside the LAN, something inside the LAN must deliver the packet. A public IP address alone does not make a powered-off laptop reachable. Use one of these controlled arrangements:
Router-delivered WoL
Some routers provide a Wake-on-LAN page or API. Sign in to the router through its supported secure access method, choose the saved laptop entry or enter its MAC address, and send the packet. TP-Link documents a router-based approach (TP-Link’s WoL guide). Availability and menu names are model-specific.
Rank #3
- Adapter for converting a USB 3.1 Type-C port to a RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Integrated Ethernet port supports 10M/100M/1000M bandwidth; offers instant Internet connection to the host
- USB-C input allows for reversible plugging; offers complete compatibility with current computers and devices; compatible with Nintendo Switch
- Ready to use, right out of the box; no external power adapter needed
- Slim, compact size and lightweight aluminum housing for easy portability
Always-on relay on the target LAN
An always-on desktop, server, NAS or other trusted device can receive an authenticated request and send the packet locally. TeamViewer describes using an online device or router to wake an offline computer (TeamViewer wake documentation). Getscreen also explains the need for a device that remains available to issue the wake request (Getscreen waking guide).
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Port forwarding: only with a deliberate security design
Some vendor instructions describe forwarding a port to support an external WoL request. Treat that as an advanced router configuration, not a default recipe. Exposing a management service directly to the internet increases attack surface. Prefer a VPN, the router’s authenticated feature, or a relay that requires strong authentication and is kept up to date. Do not expose an arbitrary WoL or remote-desktop service merely because the laptop has a public address.
After sending the packet, allow time for firmware, operating-system startup, disk unlock and the remote agent. A wake event is not proof that the machine is ready for interactive control.
Restart a laptop that is already running
Restart requires an operating system that is responsive enough to accept a command. Use an authenticated administrative channel that was configured before the problem occurred. Microsoft documents the PowerShell Restart-Computer cmdlet for local and remote operating systems (Microsoft Restart-Computer reference).
PowerShell examples
For a local restart from an elevated PowerShell session:
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #4
- 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡-𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 - Instantly transform your laptop or tablet’s USB-C port into a reliable wired connection with a 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port. Perfect for replacing unstable Wi-Fi in situations that require uninterrupted connectivity, such as online meetings, gaming, and media streaming.
- 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝟑.𝟎 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 - Experience full Gigabit Ethernet performance over your laptop’s USB-C 3.0 port and elevate your browsing experience to transfer files, play games, video chat, and stream HD videos seamlessly. (To reach 1Gbps, please use CAT6 or up Ethernet cables.)
- 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚-𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 - At just 2.8 x 1.0 x 0.6 inches, the UE300C slips easily into your laptop bag or pocket. The lightweight yet durable build makes it perfect for travel, remote work, or quick setup in conference rooms.
- 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲- No driver required for Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux (Ubuntu). Simply connect and enjoy instant wired internet access without complicated setup.
- 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲- Works seamlessly with most USB-C devices, including MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro, Dell XPS, Surface Laptop, Chromebook, and more—making it a versatile network upgrade for home, office, or on-the-go use.
Restart-ComputerFor a remote Windows computer, provide the computer name and credentials permitted for remoting:
Restart-Computer -ComputerName LAPTOP-NAME -Credential (Get-Credential)The command’s success depends on the remoting transport, firewall rules, credentials and policy. Microsoft’s remote-command guidance explains how remoting sessions and authentication are configured (Microsoft remote commands). If the laptop is asleep, shut down or disconnected, the command cannot reach it; wake it first, then wait for the management service to return.
Restart safely
- Save or close work before issuing the command. A forced restart can lose unsaved data.
- Warn anyone using the laptop, or schedule the restart when it will not interrupt work.
- Use a timeout or confirmation option supported by your management tool when you need a grace period.
- Afterward, verify that the laptop reconnected, the remote agent launched automatically and no pre-boot prompt is blocking the session.
What changes for sleep, hibernation and shutdown?
Sleep
Sleep is generally the easiest state for WoL because standby power can remain available to the network adapter. That does not make support universal: firmware, driver and laptop power policy still decide whether a magic packet is honored. Test sleep with the exact Ethernet path and AC/battery condition you plan to use.
Hibernation
Hibernation writes memory to storage and powers down more aggressively than sleep. Some models permit wake from hibernation; others do not. Select hibernation only after a successful test from that state, and allow extra time for the operating system to restore its session.
Shutdown
A full shutdown is less dependable for WoL. The adapter may lose standby power, and firmware may not implement wake from the shutdown state. Getscreen specifically cautions that wake behavior depends on the computer and the state from which it is started (Getscreen waking guide). Verify shutdown recovery locally before leaving the laptop unattended.
Best Value
- 【1Gbps LAN to USB-C Adapter】Obtain stable connection speeds up to 1Gbps; downward compatible with 100Mbps/10Mbps networks. Our Type-C to LAN Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) Network Adapter supports large downloads at maximum speeds without interruption. (To reach 1Gbps, make sure to use CAT6 & up Ethernet cables.)
- 【Reliable & Endurance Connectivity】Designed specifically for plug-and-play connection between USB-C devices and wired network, provides gigabit ethernet connectivity even when wireless connectivity is Inconsistent or over extended.
- 【Thoughtful Design】Compact and lightweight, with a user-friendly non-slip design for easier plugging and unplugging. Braided nylon cable for extra durability. Premium aluminum casing for better heat dissipation. High-quality USB-C connector provides snug connection with your devices for stable signal transfer. Design to make it easy to connect USB peripherals without blocking adjacent USB-C ports
- 【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with iPhone 15/16 Pro/Max, MacBook Pro 16''/15” (2023/2022/2021/2020/2019/2018/2017), MacBook (2019/2018/2017), MacBook Air 13” (2022/2018), iPad Pro (2022/2020/2018); XPS 13/15/17; Surface Book 2; Google Pixelbook, Chromebook, Pixel, Pixel 2; Asus ZenBook. Compatible with Samsung S20/S10/S9/S8/S8+, Note 8/9, Galaxy Tablet Tab A 10.5, and many other USB-C laptops, tablets, and smartphones. (NOT compatible with Nintendo Switch.)
- 【What You Get】 USB C to Ethernet Adapter 1 pack, An effortless 18-month 𝗐𝖺𝗋𝗋𝖺𝗇𝗍𝗒 and 24/7 professional customer service. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us, we solve most issues within 12 hours. Please rest assured we stand behind our products and customers.
Supported Surface wake features
Microsoft documents Wake-on-Power for listed Surface models. It can automatically start a compatible device when it is reconnected to power, but it is not a general feature of all laptops (Microsoft Surface Wake-on-Power). Microsoft also documents a distinct wired WoL path through Surface Dock 2 for listed devices with AC power (Surface Dock 2 WoL documentation). Check the supported-model lists and configuration requirements before relying on either feature.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why a smart plug often fails with laptops
A smart plug only switches external electricity. It does not send a WoL packet and cannot bypass a laptop’s firmware or battery. For the plug to start the computer, the firmware must be configured to boot automatically when AC power is restored. If the battery is charged, turning the plug off may leave the laptop running; if it is already off, restoring power may do nothing unless the firmware has a power-recovery setting.
Getscreen describes this approach as primarily suitable for desktops and mini PCs and warns that laptop battery behavior requires separate testing (Getscreen waking guide). Treat it as a conditional workaround only after testing the precise AC-restoration behavior, battery state and unattended boot path.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Pre-boot obstacles that can stop unattended access
A successful wake is only the first milestone. The operating system must boot far enough for the network stack and remote-access agent to start.
- Disk-encryption unlock: A BitLocker or other full-disk-encryption prompt may require a person at the keyboard before Windows can finish booting.
- Firmware passwords: A UEFI password or boot-selection prompt can halt startup after power-on.
- Automatic sign-in and agent startup: If the remote-control service starts only after a user signs in, the laptop may be powered on but still unreachable for unattended work.
- Network profile and firewall: A driver update, changed profile or firewall policy can prevent the management service from accepting connections after boot.
- Dock or adapter initialization: USB-C docks and external adapters may initialize too late or lose power during the target state.
Configure the remote-access software to launch at boot where your security policy permits, and test from a cold start. Do not remove encryption or passwords solely to make remote wake easier; instead, decide whether a person or a separate out-of-band management system is required for that pre-boot step.
Troubleshooting when the laptop does not wake
No link light or no packet response
- Reconnect Ethernet directly, bypassing an unpowered dock or switch port.
- Confirm the laptop is on AC and that the adapter is the interface whose MAC address you recorded.
- Recheck UEFI and OS settings after a firmware or driver update; updates can reset wake permissions.
- Test from sleep, then hibernation, then shutdown. A failure in one state does not prove failure in all states.
The packet leaves the sender but never reaches the laptop
- Verify that the relay or router is on the same LAN and has permission to send broadcast traffic.
- Check that the laptop’s DHCP reservation or network identity has not been confused with another device.
- For off-network use, confirm the authenticated VPN/router/relay path is online before troubleshooting the laptop itself.
The laptop powers on but remote control still fails
- Wait for the operating system to complete startup and reconnect.
- Look for an encryption, firmware or login prompt that requires local input.
- Check that the remote agent is configured for automatic startup and that its firewall rule still applies.
- Use local access to inspect event logs, adapter state and the last boot reason; then repeat the test from the intended unattended state.
A smart plug appears ineffective
Check whether the battery kept the laptop powered, whether the firmware has an AC-restoration setting, and whether the plug actually removed and restored power. If any of those conditions is uncertain, use a supported WoL or model-specific power feature instead.
Security and reliability checklist
- Use strong, unique credentials and multifactor authentication for the router, relay and remote-management service.
- Prefer a VPN or authenticated relay over exposing management ports directly to the internet.
- Limit relay and router access to the people and devices that need it; keep firmware and management software patched.
- Record the exact laptop model, firmware version, adapter, MAC address and supported wake states.
- Test local wake, remote wake and post-boot access separately. Document the delay before the agent becomes available.
- Keep a physical fallback for encryption unlocks, firmware prompts and failures caused by a drained battery or disconnected network.
Recommended decision table
| Approach | Starting state | Network path | Hardware/power dependency | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OS restart command | Running and reachable | Authenticated remoting session | Remote-management service, permissions and network connectivity | Cannot reach a sleeping, shut-down or disconnected laptop |
| Local WoL | Sleep, hibernate or supported shutdown | Same LAN broadcast or local sender | Firmware/NIC support, usually wired Ethernet and AC | Does not work on unsupported states or interfaces |
| Router WoL | Supported sleep/hibernate/shutdown | Authenticated router feature delivering inside the LAN | Router firmware must provide WoL and reach the adapter | Not available on every router; external access needs secure configuration |
| Always-on relay | Supported sleep/hibernate/shutdown | Remote request to a trusted LAN device, then local packet | Relay must remain powered and online | Adds another device and account to secure and maintain |
| Model-specific power-on feature | Powered off or disconnected from AC | Power restoration rather than a network packet | Documented firmware support, AC connection and compatible model/dock | Applies only to listed hardware and may still stop at pre-boot prompts |
| Smart plug | Powered off, only when AC restoration boot is supported | Internet-controlled electrical switch | Firmware power-recovery setting; battery behavior must be tested | Primarily suited to desktops/mini PCs, not a universal laptop solution |
A practical end-to-end test
- Find the manufacturer’s documentation for the exact laptop and confirm which wake states and interfaces it supports.
- Enable the documented UEFI and operating-system settings, connect Ethernet and AC, and record the correct MAC address.
- Configure the router’s authenticated WoL feature or an always-on LAN relay.
- Test a wake from sleep on the local network, then verify that the operating system and remote agent become available.
- Repeat from hibernation or shutdown only if the manufacturer indicates support.
- Test the same path from outside the LAN through the secured router or relay.
- While the laptop is running, issue a normal authenticated restart and verify that it reconnects afterward.
- Document any encryption, firmware or login prompt that prevents unattended completion, and retain a physical recovery plan.
This sequence separates hardware support, packet delivery, operating-system startup and remote-management permissions. That separation makes failures diagnosable instead of treating “the laptop is offline” as one problem.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
