PSA: Steam Link Supports Wake on LAN – A Game-Changer for Gamers

PSA: Steam Link Supports Wake on LAN

Steam Link now supports Wake on LAN (WoL), a feature that allows users to remotely power on their gaming PCs. This is significant because it enhances convenience and accessibility, enabling gamers to start their systems from anywhere without needing to physically press the power button. This means you can jump into your gaming sessions more seamlessly, even if your PC is in sleep mode or powered off.

What is Wake on LAN?

Wake on LAN (WoL) is a networking standard that allows a computer to be turned on or awakened from a low-power state using a network message called a “magic packet.” This packet contains the MAC address of the target computer and is sent over the local network.

How It Works:

1. Enable WoL: First, WoL must be enabled in the computer’s BIOS/UEFI and network adapter settings.
2. Send Magic Packet: A device on the same network sends a magic packet to the target computer’s MAC address.
3. Wake Up: The target computer receives the packet and wakes up from sleep or a low-power state.

Relevance to Steam Link:

Steam Link allows you to stream games from your PC to another device. With WoL, you can wake your PC remotely using the Steam Link app. This means you can start gaming without physically turning on your PC, making the process seamless and convenient.

How to Enable Wake on LAN for Steam Link

Here’s a step-by-step guide to enable ‘Wake on LAN’ for Steam Link:

Host PC Configuration

1. Enable Wake on LAN in BIOS:

   • Restart your PC and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing DEL, F2, or ESC during boot).
   • Navigate to the Power Management section.
   • Find and enable Wake on LAN or Power On By PCI Devices.
   • Save and exit the BIOS.

2. Enable Wake on LAN in Windows:

   • Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
   • Expand Network adapters and right-click your network adapter.
   • Select Properties.
   • Go to the Advanced tab.
   • Find and enable Wake on Magic Packet.
   • Go to the Power Management tab.
   • Check Allow this device to wake the computer and Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer.
   • Click OK.

Steam Link Configuration

1. Install Steam Link on your client device:

   • Windows: Download from the Steam website and add it as a non-Steam game.
   • Steam Deck: Search for Steam Link in the Discover Store.
   • Raspberry Pi: Install using sudo apt update && sudo apt install steamlink.
   • Other Linux distros: Search for steamlink in your package manager or install from Flathub.
   • Apple Devices: Install from the App Store.
   • Android: Install from the Play Store.
   • Meta Quest: Install from the Meta Store.

2. Pair Steam Link with your Host PC:

   • Open the Steam Link app on your client device.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to pair it with your host PC.
   • Ensure both devices are on the same network.

3. Enable Wake on LAN in Steam Link:

   • Go to Settings in the Steam Link app.
   • Enable Wake on LAN.

That’s it! Your Steam Link should now be able to wake your host PC remotely. Enjoy your gaming!

Benefits of Using Wake on LAN with Steam Link

Using Wake on LAN (WoL) with Steam Link offers several advantages:

1. User Convenience:

   • Remote Access: You can power on your gaming PC from anywhere in your house without physically being there.
   • Seamless Setup: Once configured, Steam Link can automatically send WoL packets to wake your PC, making the process effortless.

2. Enhanced Gaming Experience:

   • Instant Gaming: No need to wait for your PC to boot up manually. You can start gaming immediately.
   • Energy Efficiency: Your PC can stay in a low-power state when not in use, saving energy and reducing costs.

These features make gaming more accessible and enjoyable, allowing you to dive into your favorite games with minimal hassle.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Common Problems with Wake on LAN (WoL) and Steam Link

1. Network Adapter Issues

   • Problem: Incorrect network adapter settings or multiple network adapters causing conflicts.
   • Solution: Ensure the correct network adapter is prioritized. Disable unnecessary adapters like Bluetooth or wireless.

2. Power Settings

   • Problem: WoL may not work if the PC is on battery power or if power settings are not configured correctly.
   • Solution: Ensure the PC is plugged in and configure power settings to allow WoL.

3. BIOS/UEFI Settings

   • Problem: WoL not enabled in BIOS/UEFI.
   • Solution: Enter BIOS/UEFI settings and enable WoL.

4. Router Configuration

   • Problem: Router not configured to forward WoL packets.
   • Solution: Configure router to forward WoL packets to the correct device.

5. Firewall Settings

   • Problem: Firewall blocking WoL packets.
   • Solution: Allow WoL packets through the firewall.

6. Steam Link Configuration

   • Problem: Steam Link not configured to send WoL packets.
   • Solution: Ensure Steam Link settings are correctly configured to use WoL.

7. Network Cable

   • Problem: WoL requires a wired connection.
   • Solution: Ensure the PC is connected to the network via Ethernet.

8. Software Conflicts

   • Problem: Other software interfering with WoL.
   • Solution: Disable or configure conflicting software.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check Network Adapter: Go to Control Panel -> Network and Sharing Center -> Change adapter settings -> Right-click Ethernet adapter -> Properties -> Configure -> Advanced tab. Ensure WoL settings are enabled.
• Update Drivers: Ensure network drivers are up to date.
• Test WoL: Use a WoL testing tool to ensure packets are being sent and received correctly.

Steam Link Now Supports Wake on LAN (WoL)

Steam Link now supports Wake on LAN (WoL), allowing users to remotely power on their gaming PCs from anywhere in their house without physically pressing the power button.

This feature enhances convenience and accessibility, enabling seamless gaming sessions even when the PC is in a low-power state. With WoL, users can instantly start gaming without waiting for the PC to boot up manually, saving energy and reducing costs.

How to Use Wake on LAN

To use this feature, users must configure their:

• Network adapter settings
• Bios/UEFI settings
• Router configuration
• Firewall settings
• Steam Link settings
• Ensure a wired connection

Common Problems with Wake on LAN

Common problems with WoL include:

• Network adapter issues
• Power settings
• Bios/UEFI settings
• Router configuration
• Firewall settings
• Steam Link configuration
• Network cable
• Software conflicts

Troubleshooting Tips

Troubleshooting tips include:

• Checking network adapter settings
• Updating drivers
• Testing WoL packets using a testing tool