Turning on a computer over the net???

[Rickten]

So I was wondering. I've never really understood what it means by wake on lan. Does that mean the computer can be off and I can turn it on or something. Here's the question. Is it possible for me to turn on and off a computer from over the net. I sit at point A and turn on my computer at point B using the internet. Yes or No. Just a thought that popped into my head.

 

[BigPete]

Yes =) As long as the computer you want to remotely turn on has a Public IP or you forward the port. Basically Wake-On-Lan leaves your NIC on when the rest of the computer shut downs, when the NIC recieves a special packet(usually referred to as a "Majic Packet") it will trigger the entire system to awaken. Most people have a script for doing this and I wouldnt be surprised if you found one for download from somewhere.

 

[ErikS]

I just thought I'd add a bit to the discussion. WOL (wake on lan) functions as described but you will need a WOL compatible NIC & a WOL motherboard (and a cable to connect them). Most NICs are WOL & include the cable, if you need to get a new one (I did) those such as the D-link DFE-503-tx+ work well.

Besides turning the computer on remotely another use for WOL is in the home network. If, oh say, you're in the living room using a latop and you need access to a computer in another room that's in standby mode it will wake the machine up w/o you having to do anything.

 

[Rickten]

Cool thanks guys

edit: Does anybody know where I can pick up the cable that connects my network card to the motherboard.

 

[heartsurgeon]

should have come with the network card! what kind of network card do you have? i have a couple of linksys WOL cables that i don't use - you could have one if you pm me.