NIC doesn't remain active all the time when the PC is turned off for Wake-on-LAN purposes.
NIC doesn't remain active all the time when the PC is turned off for Wake-on-LAN purposes.
I own a Dell Precision T1600 (2012) that functions as a Plex/file server. It includes an Intel 82579LM Gigabit Ethernet NIC (2011). Every evening, I employ TeamViewer to power down the server in the basement. Each morning, I use Aquila Technology's WakeOnLAN to restart it from my desktop in the living room. Occasionally, the software encounters issues because the NIC's indicators don't illuminate on the back panel during 50% of the mornings. The other half of the time, WakeOnLAN operates correctly. Any suggestions for maintaining the NIC active? March 2, 2020: Fascinating! I recently reviewed the BIOS and noticed it had been disabled overnight. I'll monitor it closely. Dell_Precision_T1600_Service_Manual.pdf Dell Precision T1600 Setup & Features.pdf
You might assume turning off the power-saving mode for the NIC, but on Windows this causes a loss of Wake-on-Learn. Check the BIOS settings to explore options for power saving and WOL adjustments. Another approach is switching the power plan to 'full power' or removing any restrictions.
You can simplify this process using an outlet timer and configure it to restart power for a minute or two each morning. You’d need to adjust your BIOS to activate at AC restoration and set up a scheduled task in Windows to turn it off at night. The BIOS settings should reflect the WOL state and related features—typically just 'on.' Additionally, you may require other ACPI standby power configurations (such as those from the power-off S5 state).