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Wake on Magic Packet Missing: 5 Ways to Fix it
Make sure you are not running generic drivers
5 min. read
Published onDecember 4, 2023
published onDecember 4, 2023
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Key notes
TheWake on Magic Packetis critical for users who employ theWake on LAN(WoL) functionality, but for a few, it’s missing in Windows. The problem appeared on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 and usually had the same underlying cause.
WhenWake on Magic Packetis not found in the network adapter’sProperties, users may be unable to remotely wake up the device. And this needs an immediate resolution!
Why is theWake on Magic Packetmissing?
If you recently upgraded the operating system and had theWake on Magic Packetproperty available on the earlier iteration, it’s generally the driver’s incompatibility to blame. Besides, there’s also the likelihood that the functionality is not supported by the network card or the motherboard, both equally critical.
What can I do if the Wake on Magic Packet is missing?
Before we start with the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones:
1. Update the driver
For 4 out of 5 users,updating the network driversdid the trick whenWake on Magic Packetwas missing in the adapter’s advanced properties, which subsequently led toWake On LANnot working.
If Windows can’t find a better driver, head to the manufacturer’s website, locate the latest version, andmanually install the driver. Make sure to do this because some updates are only available online and not released viaWindows Update.
Outbyte Driver Updater
2. Roll back the driver update
3. Turn off Fast Startup
As per forums,disabling fast startupworked for many whenWake on Magic Packetwas not showing. This could be because fast startup prevents the computer from completely shutting down and, instead, puts it in hybrid mode where a few critical processes are running.
4. Fix issues with the BIOS
When the previous solutions didn’t work,access the BIOS, and make sure that theDeep Sleepis disabled in the BIOS. Also, if you recently made any changes to the BIOS, reset it to defaults. There’s usually an option for for reset on the main screen.
Besides, if there are any newer versions available,update the BIOS. Remember, it’s a critical process. Any power outage during the update will render the PC useless, and you will subsequently have to reinstall the BIOS.
5. Perform a system restore
In case a recent change led toWake on Magic Packetgo missing, and you can’t identify it, asystem restorewill do the job. It helps take the PC back to a stable state where the error didn’t exist. Though highly unlikely, if things don’t work out or complicate further,undo the system restore.
Remember, the problem is usually caused due to incompatibility or outdated drivers. So those two should be the aspects you primarily work on. Nevertheless, one of these solutions will help whenWake on Magic Packetis missing.
Also, for seamless operation, you can consider using aneffective remote wake-up PC softwarethat will save you significant time.
For any queries or to share which fix worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:Fix network issues
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
