WakeOnLAN

WakeOnLAN is a C++ tool to remotely power on a PC using the Wake-on-LAN (WOL) protocol. It sends a magic packet with the target PC’s MAC address over UDP, with error handling for invalid inputs or network issues. Built for beginners, it supports both Windows and Linux, demonstrating cross-platform network programming. The target PC must have WOL enabled in its BIOS and network settings.

Features

• Sends WOL magic packet to wake a PC
• Validates MAC address input
• Provides clear error messages
• Cross-platform: Windows and Linux

Requirements

• Windows: C++ compiler (e.g., MinGW, Visual Studio), Winsock library
• Linux: C++ compiler (e.g., g++)
• Target PC: WOL enabled, same local network

Setup

1. Clone the repository:

   git clone https://github.com/AsifMinar/WakeOnLAN.git

2. Ensure wol.cpp is in the project directory.

Compilation

• Windows (MinGW):

  g++ -o wol wol.cpp -lws2_32

• Linux:

  g++ -o wol wol.cpp

Usage

• Windows:

  wol.exe

  Run as Administrator if permission denied.
• Linux:

  sudo ./wol

Enter the target PC’s MAC address (e.g., 00:11:22:33:44:55).

Example:

Enter MAC address (example: 00:11:22:33:44:55): 00:11:22:33:44:55
Magic packet sent successfully!

Testing

• Ensure the target PC has WOL enabled.
• Run on the same network as the target PC.
• Enter a valid MAC address and verify the PC powers on.
• Test invalid MAC addresses for error handling.

Limitations

• Uses IPv4 broadcast (255.255.255.255) on port 9.
• Linux may require sudo; Windows may need admin rights.
• Supports MAC format XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX only.