How to Boot Your Laptop Remotely: A Comprehensive Guide
Removing the need to physically access a laptop can be incredibly beneficial, especially when you're working from a remote location. This guide explores several methods to achieve this, including the use of Wakeup-on-LAN (WoL) and utilizing various remote desktop software options.
Understanding Wakeup-on-LAN (WoL)
Wakeup-on-LAN (WoL) allows a computer to be booted or restarted remotely via a network packet. This technology has been around since the 1980s, but its implementation is not standard in modern laptops. To use this feature effectively, the laptop must be designed to support it, which many laptops today are not.
Enabling Wakeup-on-LAN (WoL)
To enable Wakeup-on-LAN (WoL) on a compatible computer, follow these steps:
Connect the computer to the network via Ethernet cable. Wi-Fi is not supported by WoL. Obtain the MAC address of the laptop's network adapter from network settings or system information. Configure the router or network switch to enable WoL and specify the laptop's MAC address. Use a WoL tool, such as magicpacket, on another machine to send a UDP broadcast message to the laptop's MAC address.Using Remote Desktop Software
For those laptops not capable of using WoL, consider using a remote desktop software. This allows you to access your laptop's desktop from another device in real-time. Two of the most popular options are AweSun and Chrome Remote Desktop.
AweSun Remote Desktop Software
AweSun is a powerful and user-friendly remote desktop software that lets you access your PC remotely from your phone or a local PC. It's free and offers advanced features such as file transfer, remote printing, and more.
Download the AweSun app from the App Store or Google Play. Install AweSun on your laptop and set it to "Remote Control" mode. Create a free account in the AweSun management panel. Enter the laptop IP address and generate a unique control ID. Install the AweSun app on your mobile device and connect to the laptop using the control ID.Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is a powerful tool that allows you to gain access to a computer from any other computer running Google Chrome. Unlike AweSun, it is specifically integrated into the Chrome browser, which supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chromebooks.
HOST SIDE: Install the Chrome Remote Desktop extension in Google Chrome (download here). Generate a personal PIN to allow remote access and log in with your Google account credentials. CLIENT SIDE: On the client computer, sign in to your Google account and Chrome Remote Desktop using the same credentials or a temporary access code provided by the host. Once authenticated, choose the target PC from the list of connected computers and start the remote session.Additional Features of Chrome Remote Desktop
While Chrome Remote Desktop lacks a built-in chat feature, it offers several other advantages:
No need to have Chrome open on the host PC for you to connect. Ability to connect to a computer even when the user is logged out. Supports any operating system that uses Chrome, making it highly versatile.Conclusion
Through Wakeup-on-LAN and remote desktop software like AweSun or Chrome Remote Desktop, you can effectively manage and control your laptop from afar. Choose the method that best fits your needs and enjoy the convenience of remote access.
Further Reading
For more detailed information on Wakeup-on-LAN and remote desktop software, visit the following resources:
Wikipedia: Wake-on-LAN Official Google Support: Chrome Remote Desktop