Can't ping computer when its screen is locked

When my Windows 7 desktop locks its screen due to inactivity, I am unable to connect to it remotely. After I discovered this, I tried pinging the machine, which failed.

However, as soon as I walk over to the computer and unlock the screen, I am able to both ping it and remote in again.

Why does the computer appear dead to the network as soon as the screen locks?

Amicable

Posted 2012-03-06T14:51:09.187

Reputation: 538

Test this: If you locked it manually would the same thing occur? add info :What is the type of connection? – Psycogeek – 2012-03-06T15:58:02.987

Is the system asleep? – Zoredache – 2012-03-06T16:20:00.680

4Windows is turning off your network adapter when it locks. Go into your network adapter configuration and uncheck Let the computer turn off this device to save power. – resmon6 – 2012-03-06T16:24:01.893

@resmon6 I'd post that as an answer. Sounds fairly likely. – Iszi – 2012-03-06T16:40:09.030

Answers

Windows is turning off your network adapter when it locks. Go into your network adapter configuration and uncheck Let the computer turn off this device to save power.

resmon6

Posted 2012-03-06T14:51:09.187

Reputation: 491

Can't test this right now, although I have changed the setting, but marked it down as the answer because I feel it's extremely likely.

I know it is unrelated to the Firewall as we have a few PCs in the office that aren't having this problem. – Amicable – 2012-03-07T09:54:30.503

1Confirmed as answer! Mucho gracias! – Amicable – 2012-03-07T16:47:46.930

I'm happy to help – resmon6 – 2012-03-07T16:52:34.097

This is Not Normal Windows/system behaviour.

I strongly feel its your firewall, that is "blocking incoming packets" the moment your system is "Locked"

To test on this, disable your firewall for a short while.. Lock your desktop and see if you are able to remote connect/ping

If you are able to, then there's probably some setting within your firewall software that you need to look for that is blocking incoming connections/packets when your desktop is locked..

alke2007

Posted 2012-03-06T14:51:09.187

Reputation: 349