Disable Wake for Network Access

Introduction to the Bash-Based Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet

The Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet is a versatile automation script designed for macOS users who want to enhance the security of their Mac desktop computer or laptop. This Bash-based Worklet disables the wake feature in Apple wireless devices that allows them to be remotely activated when connected to a Wi-Fi network.

By disabling this feature, this Worklet mitigates the risk of unauthorized users waking up your Mac and potentially gaining access to its resources.

Why would you use the Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet?

The need for using a Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet arises from concerns about unauthorized access to a computer's shared resources over Wi-Fi networks. The "Wake on LAN" feature in macOS allows devices on the same network to wake up other machines when they are in sleep mode, which can be helpful in certain situations but can also pose security risks.

By disabling this feature through the Worklet, you limit potential vulnerabilities while still maintaining full control over your Mac's energy settings and other system preferences.

Components of the Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet

This Worklet consists of two distinct components: an evaluation script and a remediation script. The evaluation script checks whether "Wake for network access" is currently enabled on your device; if it is, then it proceeds with remediation.

The remediation script disables this setting, ensuring that your Mac can no longer be woken up by other computers on the same network.

How does the Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet work?

When executed, the Worklet first looks at your device's current power management settings by running specific commands in Terminal. It then searches these settings to see if "Wake for network access" is enabled (indicated by a value of 1).

If it finds that this setting is active, it then runs another command to disable it (by changing its value to 0), preventing any unwanted network requests from waking up your Mac while it's in sleep mode.

What is the expected outcome when you use the Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet?

Upon successful implementation of the Disable Wake for Network Access Worklet, your Mac will no longer respond to "Wake on LAN" requests from other devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This means that even if another user attempts to remotely wake up your computer, it will remain in a low power mode (sleep or hibernate) until you manually activate it.

This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches, while still allowing you to manage your device's energy consumption through its system settings.