Wake-on-LAN for Synology NAS: Setup & Use Cases

How to Wake Your Synology NAS Remotely

Wake-on-LAN (WoL) is a simple but powerful feature that allows you to power on a Synology NAS remotely by sending a “magic packet” over the network. For businesses and advanced users, WoL can significantly reduce power consumption, extend hardware lifespan, and improve remote operations, especially when NAS systems don’t need to run 24/7.

This guide explains how Wake-on-LAN works on Synology NAS, how to set it up correctly, common pitfalls to avoid, and real-world use cases where WoL delivers measurable value.

What Is Wake-on-LAN and Why Does It Matters

Wake-on-LAN enables a powered-off or sleeping NAS to be turned on remotely through a network signal. The NAS network interface listens for a specific packet and wakes the system when it’s received.

For Synology users, WoL is particularly useful because NAS devices often serve as:

• Backup targets

• File servers for remote teams

• Replication endpoints

• After-hours access systems

Instead of keeping these systems powered on continuously, WoL lets you start them only when needed.

Prerequisites for Wake-on-LAN on Synology NAS

Before configuration, ensure the following conditions are met:

• A Synology NAS model that supports Wake-on-LAN

• Ethernet connection (WoL does not work over Wi-Fi)

• Network interface and router that support WoL

• NAS connected to a reliable power source

WoL typically works best within the same local network, but remote use is possible with proper routing or VPN setup.

How to Enable Wake-on-LAN on Synology NAS

Step 1: Enable WoL in DSM

1. Log in to DSM

2. Go to Control Panel → Hardware & Power → General.

3. Enable Wake on LAN for the desired network interface.

4. Apply changes

Step 2: Verify Network Interface Configuration

• Ensure the NAS uses a wired Ethernet interface.

• Assign a static IP address or a DHCP reservation.

• Confirm MAC address accuracy (used by WoL tools)

Step 3: Test WoL on the Local Network

Use a WoL utility or mobile app to send a magic packet from another device on the same LAN. If the NAS powers on, WoL is working locally.

Step 4: Configure Remote WoL (Optional)

For remote access:

• Set up a VPN connection to the local network (recommended)

• Or configure router port forwarding carefully (less secure)

VPN-based WoL is safer and easier to manage in business environments.

Common Wake-on-LAN Issues and Fixes

NAS Doesn’t Wake

• Confirm WoL is enabled in DSM.

• Verify Ethernet link LED remains active when powered off.

• Check router or switch compatibility.

WoL Works Locally but Not Remotely

• Use a VPN instead of direct internet exposure.

• Ensure the router supports forwarding broadcast packets

NAS Wakes Unexpectedly

• Disable unnecessary network discovery services

• Review scheduled tasks or backup jobs triggering wake events

Real-World Use Cases for Wake-on-LAN

1. Energy-Efficient Backup Targets

A secondary NAS used only for nightly backups can remain powered off during business hours and wake automatically when backup jobs start.

2. Remote Office Access

Branch-office NAS systems can be powered on only when users need access, reducing hardware wear and energy costs.

3. Disaster Recovery Readiness

A standby NAS can remain offline until a recovery test or failover event requires it to be activated.

4. Home Lab and Test Environments

Developers and IT teams can keep test NAS systems offline until needed, then wake them remotely without physical access.

Synology-Focused Solution Overview

Synology integrates Wake-on-LAN directly into DiskStation Manager (DSM), allowing administrators to manage power behavior alongside scheduling, backups, and hardware controls. Combined with DSM task scheduling, VPN services, and access control, Synology enables WoL to be used safely in both local and remote scenarios. When configured properly, WoL becomes part of a broader power and availability strategy rather than a standalone feature.

Security Best Practices When Using Wake-on-LAN

• Prefer VPN-based remote access.

• Avoid exposing the DSM or WoL ports directly to the internet.

• Limit WoL access to trusted devices.

• Monitor logs for unexpected wake events.

• Keep the DSM and router firmware updated.

Security should always be prioritized when enabling remote activation features.

How Epis Technology Helps Implement Wake-on-LAN Safely

Wake-on-LAN may seem simple, but improper configuration can introduce security or reliability risks. Epis Technology helps businesses design secure NAS power-management strategies that integrate WoL with VPN access, firewall rules, and scheduled workflows. The team evaluates how WoL fits into backup schedules, disaster recovery plans, and remote-access policies, ensuring systems wake only when intended. Epis Technology also assists with multi-NAS environments, helping organizations coordinate WoL across primary and secondary systems for efficient, secure operations.

Wake-on-LAN is a practical and often underutilized feature that can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance remote management of Synology NAS systems. When set up correctly, it allows organizations to balance availability with energy savings without sacrificing security.

By combining Synology’s built-in WoL capabilities with expert planning and deployment support from Epis Technology, businesses can confidently use Wake-on-LAN as part of a modern, resilient NAS strategy.

About Epis Technology

Epis Technology provides enterprise IT infrastructure, Synology consulting, and data protection services. The company specializes in scalable NAS deployments, hybrid cloud integration, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace backups, fully managed PC backups, and business continuity planning. Epis Technology helps organizations secure, optimize, and future-proof their data environments with confidence.