Before configuring any software, your hardware must be capable of receiving and processing the Wake-on-LAN broadcast while in a soft-off state (S5 power state). Step 1: Motherboard BIOS/UEFI Configuration
Have you gotten WoL working reliably after a prolonged APC UPS shutdown? Share your setup below. 👇
Mastering Remote Power Management: The Best APC UPS and Wake-on-LAN Strategies
Wake-on-LAN with APC UPS: Best Practices for Reliable Remote Startup
What or hypervisors (Windows, Linux, VMware, etc.) are running on the machines you need to wake up? apc ups wake on lan best
The way your APC software commands the shutdown dictates how the hardware behaves when power returns.
Windows 10 and 11 utilize a hybrid shutdown feature called Fast Startup. This often leaves the network card driver in a state that ignores magic packets. Disable Fast Startup in the Windows Control Panel under Power Options.
Create a script in /etc/apcupsd/ that runs when power restores ( onbattery → offbattery ). Example:
If you have done this, your server is ready to wake the moment the APC UPS restores utility power. Before configuring any software, your hardware must be
To achieve the best, most reliable Wake-on-LAN setup with an APC UPS, you must configure three distinct layers: the hardware BIOS/UEFI, the Operating System, and the UPS management software. 1. BIOS/UEFI Hardware Settings
If the computer shuts down gracefully via software but the UPS never actually cut the outlet power, you can use the smart plug or managed PDU app to remotely cycle the power (Turn Off, then Turn On).
Always keep your NMC3 firmware updated to the latest version.
(via PowerChute or Network Management Card) tells your PC to shut down safely when battery levels are critical. Wake-on-LAN 👇 Mastering Remote Power Management: The Best APC
Configure the shutdown parameters to ensure the OS shuts down gracefully when battery run-time falls below a specific threshold (e.g., 5 minutes).
Install or log into the APC NMC Web Interface .
2. APC Back-UPS Pro Series (Best for Desktop & Budget Setups)
Note: If you want WoL to handle the timing, set this to "Power Off" or "Last State". If you want the machine to boot the exact moment the UPS outlets turn on, set this to "Power On". Using WoL is preferred because it allows you to sequence the boot order of your servers. Step 2: Operating System Network Adapter Settings
Scroll down to find and set the value to Enabled .
For critical remote servers or workstations, plug the computer into a smart plug or a switched APC Rack PDU, which is then plugged into the UPS. Set the computer's BIOS to after a power loss.